Observations on odoriferous and other glands in the Australian wild rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), and the hare, Lepus europaeus P. III. Harder's, Lachrymal, and Submandibular Glands

Abstract

Harder's and lachrymal glands from 2000 rabbits and 200 hares have been studied to determine their histology and the relationship of the weight of the glands to the age, sex, and social status of the animals. The Harder's and lachrymal glands of hares were larger than those of rabbits. Sexual dimorphism was apparent in both species in the case of Harder's gland, the glands of males being larger than those of females. The lachrymal glands were the same size in male and female hares but slightly larger in male rabbits. The weight of both glands fluctuated seasonally in rabbits and hares, being largest during breeding. Harder's glands in dominant (sexually highly active) female and male rabbits on histological examination showed a higher degree of secretory activity. The Harder's glands of wild rabbits were larger in relation to body weight than those of domestic rabbits. The lachrymal glands were only slightly heavier in dominant male rabbits but the height of the secretory epithelium did not differ from that in the subordinate individuals. The size of the Harder's gland decreased in castrated male rabbits but increased in castrated females. The same effect was recorded for the lachrymal glands. Seasonal fluctuations in the weights of the central and lateral lobes of the submandibular glands in rabbits are reported.