Fauna
Mammal

European Rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

Also known as Coney, Common Rabbit, Wild Rabbit

European rabbits shape entire ecosystems through extensive burrowing networks called warrens and intensive grazing of ground vegetation. Highly social and crepuscular, colonies establish strict social hierarchies while keeping constant watch for predators using keen eyesight and acute hearing. Females dig specialized short burrows called stops to nurse their altricial young, lining the nest with belly fur.

CrepuscularBurrowingSocial
European Rabbit reference1 / 7
(c) Alexis Lours, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Alexis Lours · cc-by
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EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyGrasses, Clover, Tree Bark
Predators
  • Red Fox
  • Iberian Lynx
  • Eurasian Eagle-Owl
ThreatsMyxomatosis, rabbit haemorrhagic disease, habitat loss, predation
HabitatsGrasslands, scrublands, open woodlands, dunes, pastures
Life span3–9 years in the wild
Classification
  1. OrderLagomorpha
  2. FamilyLeporidae
  3. GenusOryctolagus
  4. SpeciesOryctolagus cuniculus
Range & activity
Native Introduced

Native range in olive; established introduced range in rust.

Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice
Look for compact grey-brown bodies, short reddish patches on the nape, and dark-tipped ears.
Support conservation
Observe from a distance and avoid entering designated rabbit restoration zones or active warren areas.
Responsible observation
  • Observation: Watch quiet warrens near twilight from downwind to observe natural feeding and social interactions.
  • Distance: Maintain a respectful distance to avoid triggering alarm thumping and causing the colony to retreat underground.
  • Habitat Protection: Avoid disturbing burrow entrances or walking directly over soft warren soil.
Related species
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