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European rabbit

Oryctolagus cuniculus

Near Threatened
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
9 years
Length
40 cm
Weight
2.0 kg
Trend
↓ Decreasing
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About

One of the world's most prolific and widespread lagomorphs, European rabbits inhabit grasslands, meadows, and scrublands from the Iberian Peninsula — their native range — to every continent except Antarctica as a globally introduced species. Living in complex underground warrens in social groups, rabbits are a keystone prey species, supporting eagles, foxes, lynx, and ferrets wherever they occur. Their rapid reproduction rate makes them both ecologically vital and an invasive species challenge.

Fun Facts

  • Rabbits can see almost 360 degrees.
  • Their teeth never stop growing.
  • They eat their own droppings for extra nutrition.

Habitat & Distribution

Found across multiple habitat types including tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, temperate broadleaf and mixed forests, and tundra, among 13 distinct biome types. Populations are also found in montane and highland environments at higher elevations.

Widely distributed across Africa (5 countries), Asia (8 countries), Europe (38 countries), North America (5 countries), Oceania and the Pacific (4 countries), and South America (7 countries). Listed as Near Threatened, this species requires ongoing monitoring to prevent population decline.

Diet & Behavior

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Herbivore
European rabbit is classified as herbivore, adapted to its ecological niche.

Diet

🌿 Herbivore
Plant matter 100%

Conservation Status

NT Near Threatened
Population Trend
Decreasing

Names in Other Languages

Spanish Conejo
French lapin, lapin de garenne
German Wildkaninchen
Portuguese Coelho

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of European rabbit?
The scientific name of European rabbit is Oryctolagus cuniculus. It belongs to the genus Oryctolagus.
What is the conservation status of European rabbit?
European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. The population trend is decreasing.
Where does European rabbit live?
European rabbit is found in Widely distributed across Africa (5 countries), Asia (8 countries), Europe (38 countries), North America (5 countries), Oceania and the Pacific (4 countries), and South America (7 countries). Listed as Near Threatened, this species requires ongoing monitoring to prevent population decline.. Countries include Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cabo Verde.
What family does European rabbit belong to?
European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) belongs to the genus Oryctolagus, which is part of the taxonomic family Leporidae.
What does European rabbit eat?
European rabbit is herbivore. Its diet is adapted to its natural habitat and ecological niche.
How long does European rabbit live?
European rabbit has an average lifespan of approximately 9 years in the wild.
What kingdom does European rabbit belong to?
European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) belongs to the kingdom Animalia (สัตว์).

Native Range — 67 Countries

Genus Oryctolagus — 1 Species

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European rabbit
Oryctolagus cuniculus
NT

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