A routine day in Winnipeg turned into a startling rescue mission for local resident Trish Chyborak after she discovered an unexpected stowaway in her vehicle.
A Startling Discovery Under the Hood
On December 10, 2025, Trish Chyborak experienced a moment of pure shock. What began as an ordinary day quickly escalated when she found a live rabbit nestled within the engine compartment of her car. The moment was so surprising that Chyborak recalls her immediate reaction vividly. "I screamed," she said, describing the instant she realized her car had a furry passenger.
Security camera footage from the scene captures the tense and unusual event. The video shows the precise moment the small, frightened bunny made a desperate leap to freedom from under the hood of the parked car. This visual evidence highlights just how precarious the situation was for the animal, which had likely sought shelter from the cold winter weather.
The Rescue and Aftermath
The incident serves as a critical reminder for drivers, especially during the colder months. Small animals, including rabbits, cats, and squirrels, often seek warmth in vehicle engine bays, which can retain heat long after a car is turned off. This can lead to tragic consequences for the animals and potential damage to the vehicle when the engine is started.
While the story of Trish Chyborak and the rabbit had a fortunate ending, it underscores an important seasonal safety tip. Experts and animal welfare organizations consistently advise drivers to take a simple precaution: give the hood of your car a firm tap or knock before getting in and starting the engine during winter. This simple action can scare away any hiding creatures and prevent injury.
A Reminder for Winter Drivers
The event in Winnipeg is far from an isolated case. Similar stories emerge across Canada every winter as temperatures drop. The Chyborak incident, captured on video, provides a powerful and shareable example of why this advice is so important.
Thankfully, in this instance, the story concludes without harm to the rabbit or the vehicle. The bunny was successfully startled out of its dangerous hiding place and presumably scampered back to safety. For Trish Chyborak, it was an unforgettable start to her day and a story she will likely be telling for years to come—a tale of surprise, shock, and a successful impromptu animal rescue right in her own driveway.
