Many new rabbit owners are curious about their homestead or pet animals, wondering just what happens when night time falls and bed time approaches.
Fortunately, in this post we go over the top rabbit facts that we’ve discovered by raising rabbits on our hobby farm regarding where, when and for how long rabbits sleep, so read on!
Do Rabbits Sleep At Night or Day
Rabbits are naturally crepuscular animals, which means they are most active during morning and evening twilight hours.
Bunnies prefer to move around during this time because many of their predators aren’t yet active and there is enough light to forage food but enough darkness to hide well.
But do rabbits sleep in the daytime or during night?
Rabbits will sleep during both day and night, usually enjoying bunny naps throughout the day and resting more deeply during the night.
In fact, about 26% of a rabbit’s sleep time is light, drowsy napping.
Just Where Do Rabbits Sleep At Night
Where Domestic Rabbits Sleep
Indoor House Rabbits
Indoor house rabbits that live alone will sleep in a designated area of their house or home. The exact location is entirely based on the individual rabbit, but is often a private, dark space.
One thing is for sure: your rabbit will sleep in the place where they feel most comfortable and safe.
Outdoor Rabbits
Outdoor rabbits will select a corner or area of their hutch, rabbit house, or rabbit tractor to sleep. Many outdoor rabbits enjoy sleeping on a soft towel or blanket, as this reminds them of the natural warmth found in a den while sleeping with other bunnies.
Homestead and pet rabbits that share a house or hutch will most likely sleep next to each other, feeling safe and warm.
Where Wild Rabbits Sleep
On the other hand, wild rabbits will return to their underground system of tunnels and dens (aka warren) as night falls and snuggle with family members for a restful sleep.
Remember, rabbits are not nocturnal animals and they cannot see well in the dark, so they do not browse or search for food at night time!
Sleepy Rabbit: How Long Do Rabbits Sleep At Night
To a certain extent even during sleep a rabbit’s system continues to be active and alert for danger.
This means that rabbits only experience very deep sleep for about 9% of their total sleep time.
So while any given rabbit may sleep for 4-5 hours straight during the night, they are often continuously aware and therefore experience unique sleeping habits that we will talk about later.
Seasonal Changes: When Do Rabbits Sleep In The Winter
Rabbits do not hibernate nor do they migrate!
Instead, they hold their ground during winter months and survive off of twigs, bark and pine needles.
But during colder and darker winter months, rabbits do usually prolong the time they spend in their warm dens, although not all of that time is spent sleeping.
And through all seasons, rabbits will sleep the most during night time hours, foraging only during twilight and daytime.
Where Do Rabbits Sleep In The Winter
Domestic Rabbits Sleeping In Winter
House and Outdoor Rabbits
All your domestic rabbits can continue to sleep in their house or hutch during the winter, even if it is outside, as rabbits’ fur coats are naturally resistant to colder conditions.
However, it is important to shield your outdoor rabbits from winter wind and rain, as cold and damp or extremely windy conditions can harm your rabbit and put their health at risk.
Wild Rabbits Sleeping In Winter
And where do wild rabbits sleep in the winter?
Wild rabbits sleep in their underground den during winter months, where it is usually warmer than aboveground.
Unique Rabbit Sleeping Habits
As mentioned, rabbits remain quite aware during sleep, but you can know that your rabbit is truly sleeping if they exhibit any of these frequent ‘deep sleep’ habits:
- Ears are laid back on their head rather than pointing up
- Their breathing is calm and slowed
- Nose is not twitching
- Their eyes are closed
In addition, some rabbits grind their teeth during sleep! Some other unique rabbits sleeping habits include:
- Sleeping with eyes open
- Twitching or moving ears and nose during sleep
- Snoring or making a relaxed breathing sound
Frequently Asked Questions Related To Where Do Rabbits Sleep At Night
Do Rabbits Sleep With Their Eyes Open?
Yes, rabbits can sleep with their eyes open, which is a built in defense mechanism to remain aware and avoid predators even when resting!
Do Rabbits Sleep On Their Side?
Most rabbits sleep more or less upright, resting their paws in front of them. However, we have seen our bunnies lay down and spread out to rest, especially on hot summer days.
Final Thoughts On Where Do Rabbits Sleep
Because of their crepuscule nature, it is best to play and socialize with your rabbit during early morning or evening hours.
They are most active during this time and won’t have any desire to sleep or rest.
Finally, respect the preferred sleeping place of your bunny, keeping bright lights and foreign objects away from this place where they feel most secure.