wild rabbit

The wild rabbit, a common and widespread rodent, is known for its role as a food source for predators and as a landscaper through its burrowing activity. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and lifestyle of the wild rabbit and highlights the importance of its protection and conservation in natural habitats.

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Mammals (Mammalia)
    • Order: Lagomorpha
    • Family: Hares (Leporidae)
    • Genus: Oryctolagus
    • Species: O. cuniculus (wild rabbit)
  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Body length of 35-50 cm
    • Tail length: 4-8 cm
    • Weight: 1-2.5 kg
    • Special features: Small to medium-sized hare species with a slender body, long ears, strong hind legs, grey-brown to reddish-brown fur, whitish belly.
  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia
    • Habitat: Diverse, from open landscapes such as meadows, pastures and fields to forests and urban and rural areas.
  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Herbivore
    • Typical food: grasses, herbs, leaves, bark, buds, vegetables, occasionally roots and tree bark.
  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Mating season: spring to summer
    • Gestation period: Approx. 28-31 days
    • Litter size: 3-8 young per litter
    • Lifestyle: Socially organized in groups (colonies), nocturnal, excellent sprinters and jumpers, digging activity.
  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 5 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Not threatened, but habitat loss, hunting and disease can affect local populations.
    • Conservation measures: preservation and protection of habitats, raising awareness about the importance of the wild rabbit in the ecosystem.
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