Last updated on July 7th, 2026 at 02:53 am
Three women—Terry Chao, Jenna Goins, and Jennifer Babcock—teamed up in 2026 to rescue three domestic bunnies (Parker, Moon, and Joaquin) that were abandoned in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park after being used as props in an Anna Delvey photo shoot. Their story highlights the crisis of pet abandonment, especially among Easter-themed rabbit adoptions, and serves as a powerful call for responsible pet ownership and community-led rescue efforts.
Would you ever step up to rescue animals in need? It’s a question that tests character, and for three remarkable women in New York City, the answer came without hesitation. Terry Chao, Jenna Goins, and Jennifer Babcock came together in 2026 to address a heartbreaking situation: the abandonment of domestic rabbits in Prospect Park—rabbits that had been used as props in a photo shoot involving the infamous Anna Delvey. Their story sheds light on the darker side of using live animals in creative projects and the urgent need for accountability in pet ownership.
The Background: A Troubling Photo Shoot
In a bizarre chain of events, three domestic rabbits were brought into Prospect Park for a fashion-style photo shoot tied to Anna Delvey, the convicted fraudster who famously posed as a German heiress. The rabbits were used as props to create an eccentric visual aesthetic. But when the shoot wrapped, the animals were simply left behind.
This raised serious ethical questions about animal treatment in fashion and entertainment. Rabbits are sensitive prey animals that depend entirely on human care. Abandoning them in an urban park is life-threatening for animals that lack survival instincts for such environments.
Who Is Anna Delvey?
Anna Delvey (born Anna Sorokin) is a name synonymous with high-profile fraud. She infiltrated New York’s elite social scene by fabricating a wealthy German heiress persona. Her story was dramatized in the Netflix series Inventing Anna. While her legal troubles are well known, the animal welfare fallout from her projects is less discussed but equally important.
The Photo Shoot and the Aftermath
Stylist Christian Batty was responsible for the rabbits during the shoot. In a social media post, he admitted to panicking and releasing them into the park, taking full responsibility for the decision. The admission sparked outrage among animal advocates and led directly to the rescue mission that followed. This incident illustrates how quickly the lives of animals can be jeopardized when humans prioritize aesthetics over ethics.
The Rescue: How It All Began
Terry Chao learned about the abandoned rabbits through a local Facebook group. What started as concern quickly evolved into a rescue operation. She reached out to Jenna Goins and Jennifer Babcock, and together they formed a plan to find and capture the rabbits before winter weather or predators could harm them.
Rallying for a Cause
The women used social media to organize volunteers, share sightings, and coordinate search parties. Within days, dozens of volunteers were combing the park, handing out flyers, and asking park-goers to report any bunny sightings.
The Search Efforts
The search was not easy. Domestic rabbits are fast, fearful, and skilled at hiding. The women and their team faced poor visibility, cold weather, and the constant worry that the bunnies might wander onto nearby roads. They set up humane traps with food, monitored them around the clock, and slowly gained the trust of the frightened animals. Their persistence paid off when all three rabbits were safely captured within two weeks.
The Rescued Bunnies: Who Are They?
Each of the three rescued rabbits has a distinct personality. The women named them Parker, Moon, and Joaquin. All three were domestic breeds with no experience fending for themselves outdoors. Their successful rescue was a testament to the compassion and determination of the community that rallied around them.
Parker: The Fluffy Adventurer
Parker is a playful, curious rabbit with a thick fluffy coat. He loves exploring new spaces and was the first to approach the humane trap. His adventurous spirit made him slightly easier to locate, and he has adjusted well to his foster home.
Moon: The Gentle Spirit
Moon is quiet and calm, with a gentle nature that immediately puts people at ease. Despite the trauma of abandonment, Moon has shown remarkable resilience and is slowly learning to trust humans again. He prefers soft voices and slow movements.
Joaquin: The Curious Observer
Joaquin is the most reserved of the three. He tends to hang back and observe before engaging with new people or environments. His cautious behavior reflects the stress he endured, but with patience and consistent care, he is beginning to come out of his shell.
If you are considering adopting a rabbit, our guide on How to Rabbit-Proof Your Home is a great place to start.
The Impact of Pet Abandonment
This story is not an isolated incident. Pet abandonment is a widespread issue, especially with rabbits. Many people acquire rabbits impulsively around Easter, unaware of the long-term commitment involved. When the novelty fades or the animal becomes more work than expected, far too many are turned loose in parks or surrendered to already overcrowded shelters.
Facts and Figures
The following statistics highlight the scope of the problem in the United States:
| Statistic | Percentage / Figure |
|---|---|
| Rabbits adopted around Easter that are abandoned or surrendered within one year | 50% |
| Increase in rabbit abandonment cases in urban parks (2022–2026) | 30% |
| Households that acquire pets impulsively during holidays | 20% |
| Rabbits in U.S. animal shelters at any given time | ~150,000 |
These numbers underscore a pressing need for education, enforcement, and empathy. Abandoning a domestic animal is not only unethical but also illegal in many jurisdictions, including New York City.
Raising Awareness About Responsible Pet Ownership
Terry, Jenna, and Jennifer have used their experience to advocate for better education around pet adoption. They emphasize that owning a rabbit is a 10-year commitment requiring proper housing, diet, veterinary care, and daily social interaction.
What Does Responsible Ownership Look Like?
- Research First: Learn about the specific needs of a rabbit before bringing one home. Rabbits are not low-maintenance pets.
- Financial Commitment: Veterinary costs, hay, fresh vegetables, litter, and enrichment supplies add up. Budget accordingly.
- Time and Attention: Rabbits need several hours of exercise outside their enclosure every day and thrive on social interaction.
- Long-Term Planning: Rabbits can live 10–12 years. Ensure you can commit to their care for that entire period.
Creating Awareness
The women have partnered with local rescue organizations to host adoption events, share educational content on social media, and speak at community gatherings. Their goal is to normalize the idea that rabbits are companion animals deserving of the same commitment as cats and dogs. Learn more at our Animal Rescue and Adoption Resources page.
Pros and Cons of Adopting a Rabbit
Thinking about adopting a bunny yourself? Here is a balanced look at what to expect:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affectionate and bond closely with owners | Require specialized veterinary care (exotic vet) |
| Quiet compared to dogs and cats | Chewing and digging instincts can damage furniture |
| Can be litter-box trained | Need daily exercise outside the cage |
| Highly social and entertaining pets | Fragile spines require careful handling |
| Suitable for apartments with proper setup | Diet is complex and must be strictly maintained |
Disclaimer: This table provides general guidance only. Individual rabbit temperaments and care requirements vary. Always consult with a veterinarian before making adoption decisions.
Proper Rabbit Handling Techniques
Jenna Goins highlighted that the rabbits in the photo shoot were handled inappropriately, which contributed to their stress and fear. Rabbits have delicate spines and can be seriously injured if mishandled. Learning correct handling techniques is essential for anyone who works with or owns rabbits.
Essential Handling Tips
- Approach Calmly: Rabbits are prey animals. Sudden movements and loud noises trigger their flight response.
- Support the Hindquarters: Always support a rabbit’s back feet and hindquarters when lifting. Never pick up a rabbit by the ears or scruff.
- Hold Securely but Gently: Keep the rabbit close to your body so it feels safe. Thrashing can lead to spinal fractures.
- Never Leave Unattended: Rabbits should not be left on elevated surfaces; they may jump off and injure themselves.
Understanding Rabbit Behavior
Rabbits communicate through body language. A relaxed rabbit will have ears slightly back, eyes half-closed, and may purr by grinding their teeth softly. A thumping hind leg signals fear or warning. Learning these cues helps prevent bites and builds trust. For a deeper dive, read our post on Understanding Rabbit Body Language.
Veterinary Consultation Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making decisions about your pet’s health, diet, or care. Every animal is unique, and professional guidance is essential for their well-being.
Anna Delvey’s Perspective
Anna Delvey has publicly acknowledged that her knowledge of proper rabbit care was lacking and has stated she was not directly involved in sourcing the animals. Regardless of intent, this case highlights a critical gap: anyone who uses live animals in creative work has a moral and legal responsibility to ensure those animals are treated humanely before, during, and after the project.
The Need for Accountability
Creatives, producers, and stylists must have protocols in place for animal handling, including hiring experienced handlers and having a post-shoot plan for the animals’ care. Without accountability, incidents like this will keep happening. We have compiled an Animal Welfare Checklist for Photoshoots and Events to help professionals do better.
A Bright Future for the Rescued Bunnies
Today, Parker, Moon, and Joaquin are safe in loving foster homes with veterinary care, proper nutrition, and the gentle handling they were denied before. All three are thriving and showing signs of the trust and happiness that domestic rabbits deserve.
Advocacy and Ongoing Support
Terry, Jenna, and Jennifer continue to advocate for animal welfare. They have stayed in touch with the fosters and regularly share updates on social media to inspire others. Their work has also prompted broader conversations about the ethics of using animals in art and entertainment.
How You Can Help
- Volunteer: Local animal shelters and rabbit rescues always need help with cleaning, socializing, and adoption events.
- Donate: Even small donations to rabbit-specific rescues can cover hay, litter, and medical expenses.
- Educate: Share information about responsible pet ownership on your social media channels.
- Adopt, Don’t Shop: Visit a shelter before considering a breeder. Countless rabbits are waiting for homes.
Learn more about how to get involved by visiting our How to Help Animal Rescues guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where were the rabbits found?
The three rabbits were abandoned in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, after being used as props in an Anna Delvey photo shoot. They were found by volunteers and captured using humane traps.
Are Parker, Moon, and Joaquin available for adoption?
As of the latest update, all three rabbits are in foster homes and receiving care. Adoption availability depends on their ongoing rehabilitation. Contact local rescue organizations for the most current information.
What should I do if I find an abandoned rabbit in a park?
Do not chase the rabbit. Contact a local rabbit rescue or animal control. You can also set out a humane trap with fresh greens and monitor it closely. Domestic rabbits cannot survive long in the wild.
Is it legal to abandon a pet rabbit?
No. Abandoning a domestic animal is illegal in most U.S. states, including New York. It is considered animal cruelty and can result in fines, confiscation of other animals, and criminal charges.
How long do domestic rabbits live?
With proper care, domestic rabbits typically live between 8 and 12 years. Some breeds can live even longer with excellent nutrition, regular veterinary care, and a safe indoor environment.
Conclusion
The rescue of Parker, Moon, and Joaquin is more than a heartwarming story—it is a call to action. Terry Chao, Jenna Goins, and Jennifer Babcock proved that ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things when they refuse to look away from suffering. Their compassion saved three lives and sparked a vital conversation about pet abandonment, accountability, and the true meaning of animal welfare.
You do not need to organize a park-wide search party to make a difference. Adopt from a shelter, support a rescue, or simply educate yourself and others about what responsible pet ownership really means. If we all take small steps, stories like this one will become the exception rather than the norm.
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