In the heart of central Spain, a remarkable endeavour is underway to save an endangered breed of giant rabbit from extinction. The group behind this noble initiative comprises 11 Franciscan sisters, who reside at the Convent of St. Anthony of Padua in Castile-La Mancha. Currently, they are caring for a total of 35 Spanish giant rabbits— a breed that can weigh up to 20 pounds and has a history vital to Spain’s past.
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The Spanish giant rabbit, a hybrid of the Flanders Giant and local brown-type rabbits, has seen its numbers dwindle over the years. These rabbits were historically significant during the Spanish Civil War when they provided essential nutrition to struggling families and orphanages, particularly in areas like Asturias, Madrid, and Valencia. In a brave attempt to sustain their legacy, the sisters have committed over 30 years to nurturing this breed, ramping up their conservation efforts around a decade ago when they learned of its precarious situation.
Sister Consuelo Peset Laudeña, who currently heads the convent, recalls how their commitment to safeguarding these rabbits grew exponentially once they understood the breed’s endangered status. “We contacted an association, and I sent some photos. They informed us that we had a spectacular animal on our hands that needed protection,” she said.
The nuns not only dedicate their daily lives to tending to these remarkable animals, but they also participate in a breeding programme established in collaboration with local authorities. They manage the day-to-day care of the rabbits, including feeding, cleaning, and monitoring their overall health. Laudeña, who possesses veterinary training, performs daily health checks, including assessing the rabbits’ behaviour and condition, ensuring they remain in good health and free from illness.
Each rabbit’s environment is meticulously maintained according to stringent regulations, which include appropriate housing, temperature controls, and adequate ventilation. The nuns clean the rabbits’ enclosures regularly, carrying out spot cleaning every two days and deep cleaning with pressure washing on a weekly basis.
However, the costs associated with their care add up quickly, particularly as the rabbits have been prolific breeding during 2026, with 90 new babies born as of late March. Despite their efforts, the convent cannot sell the rabbits; they are permitted only to breed them for personal consumption. In a bid to offset expenses and support their care, the sisters have turned to selling homemade candies and artisanal ice creams at a shop adjacent to the convent.
As part of their mission, the nuns donate rabbits to local schools and registered breeders, as well as to a theme park in Toledo. They aim not only to increase the population of the endangered breed but also to spread awareness about its historical significance and the importance of conservation. “We believe that educating others about this breed is crucial if we want to keep it alive,” Laudeña remarked.
Support from local authorities has thus far been sporadic, and the sisters are hopeful for more substantial assistance in the near future. “We truly need help to obtain the necessary permits to broaden our activities,” Laudeña commented. “Without an economic outlet, fewer people may be motivated to raise these rabbits,” highlighting the urgent need for greater cooperation in their conservation efforts.
This initiative is not just an environmental endeavour but a deeply spiritual one as well, inspired in part by the teachings in Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical, *Laudato Si’*, which calls for environmental stewardship. “We’re compelled by our faith to protect creation,” Laudeña stated. “As Franciscans, we hold dear the teachings of St. Francis, the patron saint of veterinarians, which fuels our love and dedication to the Spanish giant rabbit.”
As the sisters continue their invaluable work, they serve as a reminder of the important role that conservation plays in preserving not just animal breeds but the very fabric of history that defines regions and communities. Their dedication to the Spanish giant rabbit is exemplary of how even small groups can make a significant difference in the fight against extinction. The hope is that with ongoing awareness and support, this breed will not only survive but thrive in the years to come.