A GIANT lop-eared rabbit abandoned next to a bin is in need of a forever home.

A passer-by spotted the bunny in a cardboard box near to some commercial bins on Glendinning Avenue in Weymouth on Tuesday.

The kind-hearted woman took the giant rabbit to Moorcroft Veterinary Practice in Dorchester Road, where the bunny is being looked after.

Staff say the female, called Florence, is in good condition, is very tame and has obviously been well looked after.

They said they believe she was probably a house rabbit and is very lively and ‘beautiful’.

Florence will stay at the practice for a week and then staff are hoping to find her a new home.

Veterinary Nurse Simone Doyle said: “She doesn’t seem to be phased by it at all.

“She’s in good condition.

“She’s enjoying being in her cage at the practice.

“Florence is happy tearing up newspaper and enjoying the environment we have got her in at the moment.”

But she said the giant lop, who is about the size of a big domestic cat, needs a nice quiet home to go to.

She added: “Florence is a beautiful bunny.

“She’s been loved and looked after by someone and she is easy handled.

“She will make a lovely pet for someone.”

The breed, French Lop, was first developed in France in the 19th century and is a cross between the English Lop and Flemish Giant.

They weigh around four kilograms, live to about five years old and their lop ears are between five to eight inches long.

They are known to be a relaxed and placid breed and make good family pets.

The rabbits like to eat grass hay as well as vegetables lik romaine lettuce, turnips, kale, parsley, thyme, dandelion and basil.

The green, leafy tops of radish and carrots are also excellent sources of nutrients.

Anyone who would like to adopt Florence can call Moorcroft Veterinary Practice on 01305 776686.