<human>:  What is the history of the Easter Bunny?
<bot>: The Easter Bunny is a mythical figure dating back to pre-Christian Germany, where it was referred to as “Osterhase” or “Oschter Haws”. It was believed that the Easter Bunny, who was a large rabbit or hare, would arrive at night before Easter to lay brightly colored eggs for children to find. This tradition has continued through the centuries, and today the Easter Bunny is a popular figure in many cultures around the world. The origin of the Easter Bunny has been debated, with some believing that it was connected to the goddess Eostre, whose feast was celebrated during the pagan festival of Eastre. Others believe that it originated from beliefs surrounding the hare’s fertility, strength and fast breeding abilities, which made it the symbol of abundance and fertility in many cultures.