Here's why:
* Vulnerability: Newborn rabbits are extremely fragile and susceptible to injury. Their bones are still developing, and they are easily stressed.
* Maternal bonding: The mother rabbit needs to be able to care for her young undisturbed. Frequent handling can disrupt this bonding and potentially cause the mother to reject her litter.
* Risk of illness: Handling baby rabbits can expose them to bacteria and viruses that could make them sick.
Instead of holding them:
* Observe from a distance: You can watch the baby rabbits and their mother interacting in their nest.
* Wait until they are older: It's best to wait until the baby rabbits are at least 4-6 weeks old before handling them. At this age, they are more robust and less likely to be injured.
If you need to handle the baby rabbits for a specific reason (e.g., health check), it's best to consult with a veterinarian or experienced rabbit breeder for guidance.