Rabbit
Rabbits are small mammals in the order Lagomorpha and family Leporidae.
Rabbits are small mammals belonging to the order Lagomorpha and the family Leporidae. They are herbivores known for their long ears, strong hind legs, and fast breeding. Rabbits are commonly kept as pets and also occur in the wild in many regions.
Classification
Rabbits are mammals in the order Lagomorpha, which also includes hares[1] and pikas. They are often mistaken for rodents, but they are a separate group.
Description and behaviour
Rabbits are small, furry animals with long ears, powerful hind legs, and a short tail. They are social and commonly live in groups, especially in wild populations. Their social structure often involves underground burrow systems called warrens.
Diet and habitat
Rabbits are strict herbivores that feed on grasses, leaves, herbs, and other plant matter. Wild rabbits live in burrows or warrens, while domestic rabbits live as pets or farm animals.
Reproduction and life cycle
Rabbits reproduce quickly, with pregnancies lasting about 28–31 days. Litters commonly contain 4–12 kits, though litter size can vary and may exceed 14 in some cases. Baby rabbits are known as kits or kittens. A rabbit's lifespan is commonly about 8–12 years in captivity, while wild rabbits usually live shorter lives.
Key facts
- Rabbits are not rodents; they belong to the order Lagomorpha.
- Rabbits are social animals that often live in groups and underground burrow systems called warrens.
- Rabbits are strict herbivores and eat plant material such as grasses, leaves, and herbs.
- Female rabbits are called does, males are bucks, and babies are called kits or kittens.
- Rabbit litters are usually several young and can sometimes include up to about 14 kits.
Rabbits are familiar to Canadian readers as common pets, wildlife, and agricultural animals, and they are also discussed in Canadian wildlife and animal-care resources.
Frequently asked questions
What is a rabbit?
How long do rabbits live?
What do rabbits eat?
What is a group of rabbits called?
Are rabbits rodents?
How many babies do rabbits have?
References
- PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/rabbit-fact-sheet/Supports: Rabbits are small mammals of the order Lagomorpha and are herbivores.
- Rabbit.org — https://rabbit.org/resources/fun/rabbit-facts/Supports: Rabbits are not rodents; life expectancy; group name; litter size range.
- Blue Cross — https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/rabbit/wellbeing-and-care/facts-about-rabbitsSupports: Pet rabbit lifespan and baby rabbit naming.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/rabbitSupports: Rabbit classification, reproduction, and young.
- National Geographic Kids — https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/animals/general-animals/10-hopping-fun-rabbit-facts/Supports: Pregnancy length, litter size, social behaviour, and baby rabbit naming.