Description
Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) RAB128
Rabbits are native to South Western Europe and were introduced to Britain in the 12th Century by the Normans. Currently they are very successful in a wide range of habitats. The rabbit can be distinguished from the Brown Hare by its smaller size, the lack of black tips on its ears and when it is running its white tail bobs.
They live in large burrows called warrens. The breeding season is between January and August, when the female (doe) may have a litter of 5-7 young (kittens) each month. The kittens are born blind and without fur. The doe will dig a separate birthing burrow away from the main warren. This is called a ‘stop’ or ‘stab’ and the doe will line a nest with grass, moss and fur from her own belly. The kittens will be fed and the entrance to the ‘stop’ will then be sealed with vegetation protecting the doe and her kittens from predators.
