The bunny is associated with Easter primarily because of its deep roots in pagan spring festivals where fertility and renewal were key themes. Rabbits, due to their high reproductive rate, became symbols of fertility long before the Christian holiday of Easter existed. The connection between the Easter bunny and the holiday likely originated from early Christian efforts to merge pagan traditions with their own celebrations, particularly linking to the goddess Eostre (from whom Easter gets its name), who was associated with spring and fertility and may have had the hare as a sacred animal. The Easter bunny tradition as known today started appearing in German folklore as an egg- laying hare called "Osterhase" or "Oschter Haws." According to this legend, the hare would lay colorful eggs as gifts for well-behaved children, a tradition brought to America by German immigrants in the 18th century. Over time, these customs evolved to include chocolate bunnies, candy, and toys. The bunny also functions similarly to Santa Claus, delivering gifts (like colorful eggs) to children during the Easter season. The eggs themselves are symbols of new life and rebirth, fitting into the broader theme of Easter as a celebration of resurrection and the arrival of spring. In summary, the association of the bunny with Easter reflects a blend of pagan fertility symbolism, Christian resurrection themes, and folklore traditions, making the bunny a joyous symbol of spring, renewal, and gift-giving during Easter.