Field enclosures for the study of the wild rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.)

Abstract

Groups of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.), were successfully established in netted enclosures which measured 7 1/2 and 3 3/4 acres, at a density of four to five rabbits per acre. They settled down within 2 weeks of introduction, and established constant behaviour patterns which appeared to resemble the normal. Artificial burrows ware readily used. Anti-predator precautions and a grid system for recording rabbit movements are described.