Why does my pet...?
Why does my rabbit freeze or thump?
Short answer: Rabbits are prey animals. Freezing makes them harder to spot, and a thump of the back feet can be a warning.
Updated
In more detail
A rabbit that freezes or thumps may feel threatened, unsettled or frustrated; context matters.
The wild side
Wild European rabbits watch the sky, react to birds' alarm calls and bolt for the warren.
Try this
Give your rabbit places to hide and keep outdoor time supervised and secure.
See it in the episode
Why a Rabbit Fears the Sky: Hawks, Kestrels and Buzzards (Backyard Giants, episode 2)
Questions people ask
Why does my rabbit freeze or thump?
Rabbits are prey animals. Freezing makes them harder to spot, and a thump of the back feet can be a warning. A rabbit that freezes or thumps may feel threatened, unsettled or frustrated; context matters. For advice on your rabbit's setup or behavior, ask your vet.
Sources
For advice on your rabbit's setup or behavior, ask your vet.