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A giant Easter bunny greets visitors to the Britzer Garten amusement park on Good Friday in Berlin, April 6, 2012. Reuters

The bunny is a main staple of Easter in many Christian homes, but how it became associated with the holiday is not widely known as there is no mention of it in the Bible. The Easter bunny has its origins in pre-Christian fertility lore and serves as symbols of abundant new life in the spring season.

Below are 10 facts and myths about the magical creature who delivers baskets filled with toys and treats to well-behaved children.

1. The Easter bunny is, in fact, a hare – not a rabbit, who represent fertility and rebirth. It is believed that the Easter bunny was originally a bird belonging to the goddess Eostre, but a magic turned the pet bird into a hare. Because of this, the Easter bunny continues to build a straw nest and fill it with eggs.

2. The term Easter bunny wasn’t used until 1900.

3. The tradition of painting and decorating Easter eggs dates back to the 18th century.

4. Many believe the Easter bunny and eggs are derived from the pagan holiday Eostre.

5. New York’s Easter Parade dates back to the mid-1800s and the proceeds take place on Fifth Avenue from 49th Street to 57th Street.

6. After Easter Bunny gained popularity in the United States, the gifts grew to include candies and gifts.

7. Christians celebrate Easter as the Resurrection of Jesus.

8. Chocolate Easter bunnies gained popularity in the 1890s and also came from Germany.

9. Gifts from Easter bunny for kids include baskets filled with jellybean, chocolate eggs, stuffed chicks and other goodies.

10. Most chocolate Easter bunnies are hollow so that its easier to consume.