| Latin Name |
Oryctolagus cuniculus |
| Conservation Status |
Least Concern |
| Location
| Europe, NW Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Southern S America |
| Colour |
Grey/Brown |
| Length |
34 - 50 cms (13.5 - 20 inches) |
| Tail |
4 - 8 cms (1.6 - 3.25 inches) |
| Weight |
1 - 2.5 Kgs (2.25 - 5.5 lbs) |
| Life Expectancy |
Up to 9 Yrs |
Main Characteristics
European Rabbits have a body length between 34 and 50 cms (13.5 - 20 inches), a tail length between 4 and 8 cms (1.6 - 3.25 inches) and they weigh between 1 and 2.5 kgs (2.25 - 5.5 lbs). They are grey brown in colour with a pale coloured underside.
Habitat
European Rabbits are found throughout Europe and in north west Africa. They have been introduced to Australia, New Zealand and South America. They inhabit heathland, grassland, woodland, open meadows and the edges of agricultural land.
Diet
European Rabbits feed on a wide range of vegetation including agricultural crops, cereals, cabbages and young trees. During the winter months they eat grasses, bulbs and bark.
Breeding
European Rabbits breed throughout they year and they will produce several litters annually with most being born between February and August. After a gestation period of 28 - 33 days, they will give birth to 3 - 12 young.
The youngsters are weaned after 28 days and they reach sexual maturity at 4 months old.
Predators
Predators of the European Rabbit include cats, dogs, mustelids, birds of prey and owls.
Interesting Facts
The European Rabbit is the ancestor of all domestic rabbits.
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