No, that’s not a stuffed animal — it’s a real-life bunny.
Wally, a 10-month-old English Angora rabbit, is hopping his way into hearts around the globe thanks to his fluffy, oversize ears and cartoonish appearance.
Since making his Instagram debut on Jan. 1, Wally (@wally_and_molly) has racked up over 43,000 followers. The account is managed by his human owner, Molly; the pair live together in Massachusetts.
Angora rabbits, one of the oldest breeds of domestic bunnies, are known for their long, soft wool. The wool must be sheared at least once every 90 days — and these days Wally is sporting his short, summer buzz.
“Somebody’s in the process of getting a wool cut!” Molly captioned a photo back in January, depicting a shorn Wally in a pile of wool. “We have a little work to do on the haircut,” she added.
Though the fur on his body may be clipped short, Wally’s appeal comes from his larger-than-life ears, which retain their lengthy locks year-round.
Angora wool can be used to make sweaters, suits and knitting yarn, though it’s unclear if Molly saves Wally’s wool for any of these purposes.
One of Wally’s favorite treats is dried papaya bunny candy, a necessary treat for Angora rabbits, who consume a considerable amount of wool when they clean their fur. The enzymes in papayas help break down the wool to prevent blockage in the animal’s intestines. He also snacks on leafy greens, broccoli and cabbage.
Wally takes advantage of his stuffed-animal-like appearance by playing a game with Molly where he freezes in place and won’t move until Molly says, “You must be Wally the stuffed animal!” (“Then he starts giggling and giggling,” she adds.)
Other creatures that Wally possibly resembles include a baby lamb, poodle, chipmunk, cockatoo and My Little Pony.
Fans are cooing over Wally’s pics and videos, which routinely earn more than 2,000 likes apiece.
“OMG I love this bunny so much he is SO BEAUTIFUL!!!!” wrote @catherineglewis.
“omg I cannot handle this guy!!! Thank you for bringing him into my life lol,” added @smeessen.
