The Rabbit

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Rabbit: Coínin: Oryctolagus Cuniculus.

(length 33 - 45cms)

Introduced, to Ireland by the Normans for food, fur and fun, they were kept in captivity in rabbit hutches, evidence of which still exists at Castlecarra (described on archaeological trail). Like the mink, some managed to escape and since then their numbers are so proliferate - a litter of 4 - 8 every 30 days from November to June - they have been persecuted. Myxomatosis, causing blindness and multiple tumours cause the rabbit to die 11 to 18 days later. It is a little known fact that the doe will not produce young in food shortages or overcrowding but will naturally reabsorb the embryo. They don't have the speed of the hare and have to rely on their alertness - you will often see a rabbit sitting upright on its hind legs, turning its head to catch scent, sight or sound of friend or foe. The alarm has been triggered when you see the white scut scurrying towards its underground warren which may have several entrances from which it seldom strays very far. Even in their burrow the young may be preyed upon by the stoat, badger or fox despite the best efforts of the resourceful female who removes the excavated soil to make the nest entrance inconspicuous to possible predators. An opening is retained so that the blind, deaf, naked, newborn kittens can breathe. While she dedicates herself to providing nourishment, protection and comfort of her young (she pulls fur from a pad on her chest to make a soft lining inside her burrow) the buck (male) will spend no longer than a few minutes digging instead, performing the 'manly duties' of defending nest and territory, while grazing!!

In courtship, the buck and doe may sit side by side, or, facing, and lick each others forehead, ears and neck in a calm relaxed manner, or, at night chase each other in small circles in a type of nuptial dance (they must have watched 'Home and Away')!!

It is said that five rabbits can eat as much grass as one sheep and can damage crops, shrubs, forest plantations and even air strips but will avoid the back of elder tree. Droppings are left on ant hills or other slight rises as territory markers.

Here in Doon, they choose the woodland margin for their habitat and can often be seen scurrying back to safety of cover. The term 'Buck Teeth' derives from the rabbits prominent two pairs of upper incisors as well as a non-functional pair which are situated immediately behind them.

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