Vienna - Road traffic poses an increasing threat to Austria's hares and rabbits, with some 41,000 animals run over last year, according to figures published by a traffic watchdog group on Tuesday.

With Easter Sunday mere days away, the Austrian Traffic Club said that there had been a 21-per-cent increase in rabbit roadkill last year, owing to more offspring and increased traffic.

"It's mating time, and rabbits are especially active," said Christian Gratzer, the Club's spokesman, calling for the creation of more protection areas for the animals and less road construction.

Austrian children traditionally believe that Easter bunnies bring eggs and other treats on Easter Sunday. (dpa)