Pre-Christian fertility lore is the origin of the Easter Bunny. During the spring season, the Hare and the Rabbit were the most fertile animals known.
According to what I read at http://www.easterbunnys.net/easterbunnyhistory.htm, the bunny as an Easter symbol had it’s origin in Germany. It was first mentioned in German writings in the 1500s. The first edible Easter bunnies were made in Germany during the early 1800s. These were made of pastry and sugar.
The Easter bunny was introduced to American folklore by the German settlers who arrived in the Pennsylvania Dutch country during the 1700s. The arrival of the “Oschter Haws” was considered “childhood’s greatest pleasure” next to a visit from Christ-Kindel on Christmas Eve. The children believed that if they were good the “Oschter Haws” would lay a nest of colored eggs.
Easter is early this year and you will want to see our line of plush stuffed animals on our website. Our stuffed animals include a line of plush rabbits perfect for gift giving and including in your Easter baskets.