13. Bilby, Not Bunny, in Australia
In Australia, the native bilby has become a symbol of Easter, replacing the non-native rabbit. This shift highlights ecological and cultural adaptations, as the bilby is a nocturnal marsupial with long ears and a silky blue-grey coat, distinct from the traditional Easter bunny (australian.museum).
The promotion of the Easter bilby began in the 1990s to raise awareness about the species’ endangered status and to reduce the impact of introduced rabbits on the environment. Today, chocolate bilbies are sold during Easter, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.
