Oryctolagus cuniculus

Oryctolagus cuniculus, commonly known as the European rabbit or simply the rabbit, is a species of rabbit native to southwestern Europe (including Spain, Portugal and western France) and northwest Africa (including Morocco and Algeria). It has been widely introduced elsewhere, often with devastating effects on local biodiversity. However, its decline in its native range (caused by the diseases myxomatosis and rabbit calicivirus, as well as overhunting and habitat loss), has caused the decline of its highly dependent predators, the Iberian lynx and the Spanish imperial eagle. It is known as an invasive species because it has been introduced to countries on all continents with the exception of Antarctica, and has caused many problems within the environment and ecosystems.

Taxonomy

The European rabbit is a small mammal that belongs to the family Leporidae, which also includes hares. It is classified under the genus Oryctolagus which contains only one species, Oryctolagus cuniculus. The species itself has been further divided into two subspecies: Oryctolagus cuniculus cuniculus and Oryctolagus cuniculus algirus.

Description

The European rabbit is well known for its long, upright ears and short, fluffy tail. It has a body length of 34 to 45 cm, a tail length of 4 to 8 cm, and a weight typically between 1.3 and 2.2 kg. The fur is most commonly shades of brown, grey and buff.

Habitat and Distribution

The European rabbit inhabits a wide range of habitats, from deserts to near-arctic tundra. They are most commonly found in open grassland, woodland, and in areas with plenty of cover.

Diet

The diet of the European rabbit is primarily composed of grasses and other ground-level plants. They also consume their own fecal pellets to extract as much nutrition from their food as possible.

Reproduction

European rabbits are known for their high reproductive rate. Females can produce up to five litters per year, each containing up to 12 young, known as kittens.

Impact on Ecosystem

The European rabbit has had a significant impact on ecosystems where it has been introduced. It can cause significant damage to crops and native plants, and its burrowing can lead to soil erosion.

Conservation

In its native range, the European rabbit is considered near threatened due to diseases and habitat loss. Conservation efforts are focused on maintaining and increasing populations in its native range.