That Hole Means Rabbit

Just under our maple tree is a hole in the ground, all stuffed with leaves, dead grass and momma rabbit fur. Last Spring this hole was filled with baby rabbits peeping out and ultimately hopping all about our yard (see picture!) I left the hole alone during the fall and winter, even though it is in the middle of a flower bed and I was so tempted to fill it in. About a month ago I noticed that there had been some digging around it. A couple of weeks ago the leaf stuffing appeared. Today when I was out in the yard I found a little baby rabbit, about the size of my palm, with little tiny ears and his eyes still closed. Somehow he had gotten out of the nest! I pushed the leaves aside and snuggled him back into the hole. I hope his mommy isn't mad that he smells like human but I couldn't leave him out in the cool air. And I couldn't stand the thought of our dog getting hold of him. My only regret was that I didn't send anyone in for the camera so we could have a photo of the little-bitty bunny. If the escape artist makes a break for it again, I'll be sure to get a picture!