Bunnies

Bunnies are a common name for rabbits, especially young ones, or domestic rabbits kept as pets. In zoology, bunnies usually refer to members of the family Leporidae, with the domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) descended from the European wild rabbit.

Rabbits are small to medium mammals in the order Lagomorpha. They have long ears, strong hind legs, and a short tail. Domestic rabbits vary in size from small to large breeds, typically around 1 to 4 kilograms.

Wild rabbits live in complex burrow systems called warrens and are social, typically crepuscular. They are herbivores with a high-fiber diet of grasses, leaves, and vegetables. They have a specialized gut and practice coprophagy to obtain nutrients.

Rabbits reproduce rapidly. Gestation lasts about 28 to 31 days, and litters can range from 1 to around a dozen young. Kits are born hairless and blind and mature within several weeks.

Domestic rabbits are kept as pets and for meat in some regions. They require a high-fiber diet, constant access to hay, fresh water, and safe housing with space to exercise. Welfare considerations include regular veterinary care and spaying or neutering.

Wild rabbit populations face threats from habitat loss and disease in some areas, including myxomatosis and rabbit hemorrhagic disease. Domestic bunnies depend on responsible ownership and appropriate vaccination where available.