You’ll never
guess…
The Rabbit
• The scientific name for the rabbit is Oryctolagus cuniculus.
• Rabbits are among the most common mammals in the UK and
Ireland, but they are not native to these lands. They were introduced
by the Normans for their meat and fur.
• Rabbits make their homes underground in tunnels called warrens or
burrows.
• Rabbits feed mainly on grass or hay, they don’t naturally eat carrots or
other vegetables.
• Rabbits do not hibernate in winter, but do reduce their activity to
conserve energy.
• There were many superstitions about rabbits right
up until the 20th century. To see a black rabbit was
considered unlucky as it may be the spirit of an
ancestor returning to earth. A white rabbit was no
better, as it could be a witch!
• To counter this, people would chant ‘Rabbits and
Hares’ first thing on the morning of the first day of
every month. • The Irish for
rabbit is Coinín.
• During the day the rabbits will mostly be found underground, before
they emerge in the evening to graze on grass and other plants.
• Rabbits play an important role in the food chain, as they are a vital
food source to foxes, stoats and buzzards.
Background Image adapted from original ‘Entrance to a rabbit warren’ by Brammers.
Source: Wikimedia Commons. License – CC SA v3.0
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