RSPCA investigation after rabbits abandoned in Stepney Way

The rabbits were left in a box covered with a blanket or towel, and hidden behind a fence in Stepney Way, on June 2 at around 9am, the RSPCA said.

A passer-by discovered the abandoned creatures and checked their CCTV footage to find out what happened.

An image of a man from the CCTV footage, who the RSPCA believes may have relevant information about the rabbits, has been released following the incident.

RSPCA have said they would like to speak to the man, hoping he could assist their investigation.

The RSPCA want to speak to the man on the CCTV footage (Image: RSPCA)

Two of the rabbits, a male and a female, have been placed under the care of the RSPCA Finsbury Park Hospital.

Despite their ordeal, the rabbits are generally healthy and will soon move to an animal centre.

The third rabbit has already found a new home.

RSPCA inspector Shahnaz Ahmad, who is leading the investigation, said: "We would like to speak to a man who we believe may have key information about the abandonment of these three rabbits.

"Thankfully, the rabbits are all in good health but it must have been very frightening and stressful for them to be abandoned like that.

"We're very grateful to the kind member of the public who found these buns and I'm happy to hear they're doing well."

Those with any information about the abandoned rabbits are urged to contact the RSPCA’s appeals line on 0300 123 8018.

One of the rabbits has already been rehomed, while the other two are being looked after at RSPCA Finsbury Park Hospital (Image: RSPCA)

This comes as the RSPCA have reported an increase in animal abandonment over the past three years.

Between April 2021 and April 2024 the charity has seen a 28 per cent increase in abandonment reports.

The organisation reminded the public that they can help by taking small abandoned rabbits to the vet if they are injured or a reputable rehoming charity if they appear healthy.

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the RSPCA.

As part of their celebration, they're inviting one million people to support their mission of enhancing animal welfare.

For more information about this, go to www.rspca.org.uk/200.