From Single Bun to Multiple

         It's common knowledge that bunnies do best in pairs and groups. Their natural colony existence can include a large number of bunnies with a mixture of genders, ages, personalities, and abilities. In the wild, with enough resources and space, bunnies coexist famously. In house settings, the dynamics are different. House bunnies don't have vast amounts of territory, unlimited foraging ability, or ample amount of activities which challenge their bodies and minds. Designed to dig, root around, jump, climb, run, tunnel, and burrow, their physiology demands ingenuity. Ducking into a bush and tunneling under fallen leaves at a moments notice may mean the difference between life and death. Scurrying into a hollowed tree trunk, digging into the rotted cavern develops muscle skills that will serve them well throughout their life. Running through a meadow, dodging and weaving around boulders, bushes, and other animals is a necessary tool for survival. These skills can only be minimally replicated inside homes. 
          When a bunny lives independently, they are always in a small state of uncertainty, having to be aware of potential threats at all times. The main resources of food and water, safety and protection, stimulation and enrichment, and affection are primary thoughts of a solo bunny. When bunnies live in pairs and multiples, they share the roles of safety monitor and resource allocator. They provide mutual affection and reassurance, thereby reducing stress and anxiety. Seeking comfort and almost continuous affirmations from each other, they thrive. 
           In bonding, a transitive jump from single to double indicates a transfer from one form of existence to another. Having a human coach their bodies towards mutual acceptance requires that person to be keenly aware of little nuances in their behavior that indicate intention. Allowing two buns to approach each other in a rapid full on mode will surely evoke strong emotions, potentially leading to a violent meeting. Slowing down their approaches with soothing verbal reassurances will increase the probability of better meetings. Body positions for thumping, springing up, lunging, boxing, circling, and chasing need to be discouraged. Body positions for melting, floor puddles, relaxed ears, soft eyes, and slow movements should be encouraged. The transformation from single to multiple involves biologic chemistry: determinations of instant or prolonged. Until bunnies have gained one another's trust, prolonged reactions must be rewarded as well as self-soothing, impulse control, and fluidity.