Rabbits are one of Britain's most familiar animals and favourite pets. They are seen about in broad daylight, near roadsides, hedgerows and scampering in fields often in large numbers. The word 'lop' refers to the long, folded-over ears.

Rabbits were brought to Great Britain from France 900 years ago. They bred rapidly so they were convenient for fur as well as eating. In the days before fridges, rabbits were just the right size for a meal without any waste.

The male rabbit is called a buck, the female is called a doe and the young are called kittens.

The smallest breed of rabbit is the Netherland Dwarf Rabbit which weighs just about 1 Kg. The largest breed is the Flemish Giant Rabbit which weighs in at about 8 Kgs. - twice the size of the average cat.
Rabbits feet are supposed to be lucky!

Where do rabbits live?
In the wild, rabbits like dry, open country where predators like foxes and birds of prey are easily spotted. One rabbit is always on guard when they are feeding. When danger approaches the guard stamps its feet and the whole colony will bolt down their burrows.

Average lifespan
8 - 12 years as pets, 2 - 4 years in the wild.