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SPECIES PROFILE
European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Oryctolagus
IUCN STATUS
Endangered (native range)
CONSERVATION STATUS
Endangered (native range)
CLASS
Mammalia
GEOGRAPHICAL RANGE
Iberian Peninsula (native), introduced worldwide
DIET
Herbivorous
HABITAT
Grassland, farmland, scrub
🔬 Classification
PHYLUM
Chordata
CLASS
Mammalia
ORDER
Lagomorpha
FAMILY
Leporidae
GENUS
Oryctolagus
📋 Description
SIZE
35-45 cm body, 1-2 kg
COLORATION
Grey-brown, white tail, long ears
ADAPTATIONS
Burrowing, high reproductive rate
🌿 Ecology
HABITAT
Grassland, farmland, scrub
DIET
Herbivorous
GEOGRAPHIC RANGE
Iberian Peninsula (native), introduced worldwide
REPRODUCTION
4-12 kits, up to 5-7 litters per year
DIET DETAILS
Grasses, herbs, crops
⚠️ Threats & Conservation
PRIMARY THREATS
Disease (myxomatosis, RHD), habitat loss, predation
💡 Interesting Facts
1
In its native Iberian range the European rabbit is now endangered due to two deadly viruses and habitat loss. It is a keystone species that supports many predators.
2
Outside its native range it is a major invasive pest and has caused massive ecological damage in Australia and elsewhere.
🔭 Sighting Guide
📍 BEST PLACES TO SIGHT
Doñana National Park Spain
Extremadura Spain
Camargue France
🗓️ BEST TIME TO SIGHT
Year-round
🎯 SIGHTING TIPS
Look for burrows and grazing groups at dawn/dusk in open countryside.
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