How high can rabbits jump? [complete guide]

Here, you may find yourself for three potential motives.

Initially, your endeavor revolves around safeguarding your garden or yard from the mischievous antics of untamed rabbits.

Furthermore, if you happen to be a proud guardian of fluffy rabbits, constantly plagued by concerns of their potential escapades into the untamed outdoors (or those specific corners of your lush garden or cozy abode that they love to nibble on),

Alternatively, perhaps you have an inherent fascination with adorable bunnies!

The first predicament my parents face is the relentless nibbling of their adoringly cultivated blossoms by mischievous rabbits.

Input: I am concerned about the second issue – I have a fear of my bunnies venturing onto the neighboring streets and pathways – and I, much like a few of you falling into the third group, possess a genuine fascination with these adorable creatures.

This article is a result of extensive research to ensure its reliability, combined with my own practical experiences and personal requirements.

Rabbits possess the remarkable ability to effortlessly leap over obstacles as high as three feet, equivalent to approximately one meter. Astonishingly, the current world record for the highest rabbit jump stands at an impressive 39.2 inches (99.5cm), which is equivalent to three feet and three point two inches. Nevertheless, there are intriguing tales of rabbits defying gravity and soaring to heights of up to four feet. It is worth noting, however, that fences exceeding the three-foot mark tend to discourage the majority of these agile bunnies. As a testament to this, the renowned rabbit-proof fence in Australia was constructed at an impressive height of three feet.

The official world record for rabbit jumping

The current rabbit high jump world record stands unrivaled at 99.5cm (39.2 inches).

In an official competition held in June 1997 in Denmark, a remarkable black and white rabbit named Mimreslunds Tösen, under the ownership of Tyne Bygom, achieved a record-breaking high jump. This extraordinary feat can be further explored through the resources shared by Aase Bjerner, a member of the same club, who has provided captivating photographs of Tösen’s jumping prowess on his website.

Absolutely astonishingly, rabbits have their very own official high jump competitions. Surprisingly, I too was oblivious to this captivating fact.

Rabbit hopping, also known as kaninhop in Danish (kanin meaning rabbit), emerged as a thrilling competitive sport in Sweden during the early 1980s before captivating the hearts of enthusiasts in Denmark.

The sporting extravaganza consists of four thrilling contests – a lightning-fast hurdles sprint, a daringly twisted hurdles course (not bound by straight lines), the breathtaking long jump, and the gravity-defying high jump.

Witness the mesmerizing Danish high jump championships of 2014:

The concept has now transcended borders, with various nations embracing it. England, for instance, proudly organized a spectacular bunny Grand National in the vibrant town of Harrogate. The infectious trend of rabbit hopping has even reached the far corners of Australia, as evident in a compelling report from 2019.

Feedback from rabbit owners on how high their rabbits can jump

Delving into the perspectives of rabbit enthusiasts, I explored the musings of those who proudly call themselves rabbit owners. Naturally, these accounts are purely based on personal experiences, yet they beautifully illustrate a vivid portrayal.

Many bunny owners marveled at their furry companions effortlessly leaping over 2 feet (61cm). A remarkable instance was an owner who witnessed their Mini Rex adorably hopping onto their elevated bed. It is quite customary for rabbits to gracefully spring onto sofas, eagerly joining their humans in watching TV or unwinding.

As the height surpassed this threshold, the adventures took on a more diverse nature. Accounts emerged of various breeds leaping to greater heights. A French Lop, for instance, gracefully soared over a 26″ (66cm) panel, while a Lionhead rabbit cleverly evaded confinement by leaping over 28″ (71cm) fences. Not to be outdone, other bunnies conquered a formidable 29″ (74cm) barrier with remarkable agility.

Discovering the perfect balance, certain proprietors stumbled upon the ideal mark of 30 inches (76cm), asserting that no instances of evasion occurred as long as the fence or barrier reached this minimum altitude.

Nevertheless, some owners possessed remarkably agile bunnies, as tales circulated of a Netherland Dwarf rabbit effortlessly leaping over a staggering height of 39 inches (1 meter), while Himalayans and various other breeds gracefully soared over 3 feet (91 centimeters). The grandeur of the world championships vividly demonstrates the undeniable plausibility of such extraordinary feats.

Numerous accounts exist of bunnies gracefully leaping over fences of remarkable heights – such as an astonishing assertion of a rabbit effortlessly surpassing a 4-foot (1m22) fence from a stationary position. Yet, discerning the credibility of these assertions remains a challenging endeavor.

Some fortunate individuals have witnessed the astonishing sight of bunnies skillfully eluding their confinement, effortlessly evading pens adorned with towering 4-foot (1m22) panels. However, it would be imprudent to hastily conclude that these clever rabbits simply leaped over the barriers. In fact, a vigilant owner managed to capture the elusive escapee’s daring act on camera, revealing their remarkable technique of partially jumping, and subsequently employing their nimble paws to scale the remaining distance to freedom.

Surprisingly, bunnies possess an impressive climbing ability (we once stumbled upon one of our bunnies perched halfway up a tree). Consequently, if provided with any foothold or surface, they can effortlessly navigate through obstacles, akin to the art of parkour, and make their way to liberation – a potential concern when it comes to wire fences as opposed to sleek panels.

In general, based on the owner’s experience, it is recommended to use a 3′ (91cm) fence to deter rabbits. However, for maximum assurance that a bunny won’t escape, it is advisable to opt for a higher fence, reaching up to 4′ (1m22). Additionally, it is important to ensure that the fence design does not include any footholds that may aid their climbing abilities.

My experience of jumping rabbits

The bunnies in our midst find immense joy in exploring the vast expanse of our enchanting garden, always under our watchful eyes. However, we ensure their safety by taking precautions to prevent any inadvertent escapades onto the perilous nearby roads. Our garden boasts formidable barriers, towering at a minimum height of 4 feet, specifically designed to deter the adventurous bunnies who possess an affinity for climbing. As a result, we can confidently say that our protective measures grant us a sense of tranquility.

However, upon acquiring our adorable bunnies, we encountered a minor setback with a slightly lower wall measuring approximately 2 to 2 feet and 6 inches. In our innocence, we believed this height to be sufficient, only to find ourselves in a state of desperation when our inquisitive rabbits effortlessly leaped over it. Witnessing their agile escape was both nerve-wracking and time-consuming, lasting a daunting 15 minutes.

The height of the wall has been drastically increased, resulting in our adorable bunnies staying safely within its confines.

While enjoying the outdoors in our garden, we make sure to prevent our bunnies from infiltrating our kitchen, which conveniently connects to the garden through a door. To achieve this, we ingeniously employ a sizable wooden plank as a makeshift gate, measuring approximately 32″ (80cm) in height. Remarkably, none of the mischievous rabbits have yet triumphed in breaching our defense, although on occasions when we have carelessly neglected to secure the barrier, they have managed to sneak their way in. Nevertheless, even if they were to conquer this challenge, the consequences would not be of great concern.

Among our adorable bunnies, we stumbled upon a delightful surprise – one of them possesses a hidden talent for climbing. Buzz, the name we gave this extraordinary bunny, has astounded us by ascending to a cozy nook nestled within a majestic tree. The remaining bunnies, however, seem less intrigued by such lofty endeavors. It’s truly fascinating how each rabbit showcases their distinct personality and abilities.

What breeds of rabbit jump highest?

When it comes to leaping, medium-sized breeds often prove to be the high-flyers.

Tiny breeds possess diminutive limbs, therefore they shall encounter difficulties in leaping as high as rabbits endowed with more substantial hind limbs.

However, colossal breeds bear the burden of additional weight, which limits their ability to achieve impressive jumps.

Input: Having mentioned that – let’s delve into the tales of bunny owners. An intriguing account reveals that a Netherland Dwarf, a diminutive breed, defied expectations by leaping to a staggering height of approximately 3 feet or 1 meter. It appears that these small bundles of fur possess a remarkable ability to scale great heights with their nimble jumps.

Rabbit binkies – funny little jumps

Input: Have you ever witnessed your fluffy little bunny perform a whimsical leap through the atmosphere? Maybe they even contorted their agile bodies while suspended in mid-air. This delightful display is commonly referred to as a ‘binky’. Typically, it serves as a joyful indication of a contented rabbit.

In our garden, our rabbits love to intertwine binkies and zooms, gracefully dashing through the scenery. It never fails to astound me how our bunnies effortlessly soar to impressive heights, surprising us with their spontaneous leaps from a stationary position.

How rabbits can jump so high

With their hind legs containing remarkably robust muscles, rabbits possess an extraordinary ability to soar through the air with impressive heights. Pound for pound, the muscle fibers of rabbits are a staggering 29% more potent than those of the cheetah, the swiftest land creature.

With this remarkable ability, they can effortlessly spring up to a staggering height of 1 meter, propelling themselves from a stationary position. Additionally, these agile creatures are capable of leaping great distances, astonishingly reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters) in a single bound.

How high can rabbits jump on the moon?

With no need for a spacesuit, let’s imagine a rabbit gracefully leaping up to an astonishing height of 6 meters (approximately 20 feet) on the moon.

The moon’s gravity is merely one-sixth of Earth’s gravity, which explains why rabbits can effortlessly leap six times higher on the lunar surface compared to their jumps on Earth, where the force of gravity is stronger.

Should you embark on the ambitious venture of constructing a secure lunar haven for bunnies, a plethora of fencing materials would undeniably be indispensable… Speaking of which…

How to build a rabbit proof fence

Being far from a DIY maestro, I won’t feign expertise in providing intricate, meticulously outlined instructions. However, I am able to furnish you with a few overarching notions to either fortify your defenses against mischievous bunnies or ensure their confinement.

Height of rabbit proof fences

To safeguard your garden from mischievous rabbits, ensure that your fence reaches a height of no less than 3 feet (approximately 1 meter). Anything shorter than this might result in exuberant bunnies indulging in a feast of your beautiful flowers and delectable vegetables.

To ensure utmost safety for your adorable bunnies, envision raising the enclosure’s height even further, reaching approximately 4 feet or 1.2 meters. By doing so, you can bid farewell to any concerns of your beloved bunny venturing into perilous territory.

Ensure that the vicinity of the fence remains free from any potential launching pads, or provide the bunny with suitable footholds to facilitate its fence-crossing endeavors.

Depth of rabbit proof fences

Rabbits have an inherent passion for burrowing, eagerly excavating beneath any fence if provided with a chance. To thwart their escapades, ensure the fence extends a minimum of 6″ (approximately 15cm) beneath the earth’s surface. Additionally, consider angling it towards the desired side where the rabbits should stay put.

Type of wire for rabbit proof fences

Opt for a captivating arrangement of twisted galvanized steel wire fencing, shaped in a mesmerizing hexagonal pattern. The mesh should measure approximately 1″ (2.5-3cm) or less, as anything larger might allow nimble young rabbits to effortlessly squirm their way through. To ensure utmost security, select wire of 18 gauge or 1.2mm thickness, as anything thinner might prove vulnerable to the determined nibbles of rabbits.

Posts for rabbit proof fences

For optimal results, it is advisable to use wooden posts with a minimum diameter of 4 inches (10cm). It is also recommended to position these posts on the opposite side of the rabbits for maximum effectiveness.

More information on building rabbit proof fences

The Forestry Commission, being the skilled masters of this realm, are responsible for crafting barriers that ward off an array of wildlife in diverse regions. Marvelously, they have developed a comprehensive compendium of fence specifications catering to a wide range of creatures, rabbits included. Feel free to obtain this invaluable resource by clicking here.

The Australian rabbit-proof fence

Australia constructed a fence, which at the time held the title for the longest in the world, with the sole purpose of barring the entry of rabbits. Now, let’s delve into a concise chronicle of this remarkable feat.

In the 18th century, the arrival of British settlers in Australia marked the introduction of rabbits to the land. However, the true complications commenced when Thomas Austin, a proud Australian landowner, unleashed a group of wild rabbits (sources vary between 12 and 24) that he had imported from England to South Australia. This act was intended to provide the locals with a target for hunting, alongside the assortment of animals he had proudly brought over from his homeland.

The following correspondence penned by Mr. Thomas Austin, hailing from Barwon Park, was also perused: “Barwon Park, April 18, 1861. Dear Sir, I express my gratitude for your letter and circular from the Acclimatisation Society. I am so convinced of its advantageous impact on the colony that I am enclosing a check for ten guineas to become a lifelong member. Furthermore, I have taken it upon myself to contribute in a small way by introducing game birds. I have imported nine hares and thirty-four blackbirds and thrushes from Yorkshire, which I intend to release here. Additionally, my assistant has successfully raised approximately seventy pheasants this past season, with some breeding naturally. I have even witnessed two partridge coveys, one consisting of six young ones and the other of eight. Moreover, the English wild rabbit population on my property is thriving, numbering in the thousands. Sincerely yours, (Signed) THOMAS AUSTIN.”

https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/5747882

The rabbits reproduced with astonishing speed, akin to their prolific nature. In just a matter of a few short years, the adorable bunnies had transformed into a vexing nuisance. Their burgeoning population wreaked havoc upon the land, resulting in significant harm to the delicate ecosystem. Both indigenous species and domesticated animals found themselves deprived of sustenance due to the scarcity of resources caused by the rabbits. The remedy? Erecting a formidable barrier. Not just any fence, mind you, but an extensive, seemingly endless fence that stretched far into the horizon.

The astonishing rabbit-proof fence comprised of three distinct fences, which were meticulously crafted over a span of six years until their completion in 1907. Collectively, these three barriers stretched over an impressive distance of 2,000 miles (equivalent to over 3,000 kilometers), with the distinguished honor of possessing the world’s lengthiest unbroken fence being bestowed upon the majestic No. 1 fence, extending an astounding 1,139 miles (over 1,800 kilometers) from North to South.

Originally, the fence stood at a height of 3 feet, while the posts were spaced 12 feet apart. To ward off rabbits from digging tunnels underneath, the netting extended 6 inches into the ground. These remain steadfast principles for effectively safeguarding gardens against the intrusion of rabbits.

Preserving the integrity of the fence posed considerable challenges – cunning trappers ingeniously carved openings and strategically placed traps on the opposite side, ensuring that the moment the unsuspecting rabbits scurried through, they would be ensnared. To curb this audacious act, the government deemed it necessary to impose penalties, as reported in The Argus on the 25th of August, 1910 (p.9).

In a more contemporary context, the fence gained widespread recognition thanks to its portrayal in the film with an identical title. Rabbit-Proof Fence intricately depicts the genuine tale from 1931, portraying the courageous escape of three young girls who embark on a remarkable 1,500-mile odyssey to reunite with their aboriginal families. Determined and resolute, they rely on the fence as a guiding companion throughout their arduous journey, constantly pursued by relentless authorities.

Inspired by Doris Pilkington’s captivating 1996 novel titled Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence, the film beautifully encapsulates the remarkable journey of her mother and two other young girls.

Conclusion

Certain bunnies possess the remarkable ability to leap gracefully up to approximately 3 feet (1 meter) in height, and perhaps a few are capable of surpassing that impressive feat. It is worth noting that medium and small rabbit breeds tend to demonstrate superior jumping skills compared to their larger, weightier counterparts. Curiously enough, there are individuals who organize entertaining rabbit jumping contests, an intriguing tradition that originated in Sweden and has since gained popularity across the globe. Should you find yourself in the endeavor of deterring rabbits from a specific area, it is advisable to construct a fence that stands no less than 3 feet (1 meter) tall.

What is the limit to your bunny’s jumping prowess?

Additionally, you might find yourself captivated by intriguing tidbits concerning bunnies, like their remarkable sprinting abilities, their extraordinary auditory perception, and their unique visual perception.