Abstract
ObjectiveTo provide prevalence data for future comparative analysis of the health status of rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) accumulated in the archaeological record. MaterialsTwo contrasting assemblages were analysed for pathological and sub-pathological changes: 1) an assemblage of domestic modern rabbit bones; and 2) a non-anthropogenic accumulation of archaeological rabbit remains. MethodsThe lesions observed macroscopically, under magnification, and radiographically in both assemblages are quantified and described. ResultsIn the first assemblage, pathological and sub-pathological changes mostly affected the lower limb bones and primarily took two forms: diaphyseal periosteal proliferation and hypervascularised distal physes. Differential diagnosis of the periosteal proliferation suggests that pododermatitis is the most probable cause. In the second assemblage fractures were the most common lesions, but isolated examples of hypervascularised physes, periosteal proliferation, and musculo-skeletal stress markers were also identified. The pathological changes recorded is typical of a naturally-accumulated population of wild rabbits. ConclusionsThe prevalence of pathological and sub-pathological skeletal changes in the rabbits, and thus their health status, are closely related to living conditions. This study demonstrates the value of systematically recording pathologies in rabbit bones. SignificanceWe contribute new data to help understand rabbit interactions with humans in the past and also the environment they inhabited. LimitationsWorking with modern samples frequently means only incomplete skeletons are available for study. In these cases lesion prevalence always needs to be interpreted with caution. Suggestions for further researchPaleopathological studies of rabbit remains are remarkable for their absence. Further exhaustive research in this area is advised.
Highlights
The skeletal remains of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus L. 1758) are abundant on many archaeological sites
As Stocker and Stocker (1996: 270) describe, “in its warren, like human corpses in a catacomb, the rabbit is the corporeal awaiting eternal life”. Notwithstanding their symbolism, rabbit farming remained an important component of the rural economy in many parts of Europe into the early twentieth century (Williamson, 2006:6− 13)
It is necessary to rely upon the methodical analysis of large samples of animal bones from archaeological sites (e.g. Holmes et al, 2021; Thomas and Johannsen, 2011), to better understand the variability of lesion expression and the factors influencing their development. In recognition of these facts, we present the analysis of pathological and sub-pathological changes in two samples: (1) an assemblage of modern rabbit bones recovered from an experimental taphonomic study; and (2) a non-anthropogenic archaeological accumulation of rabbit bones
Summary
The skeletal remains of the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus L. 1758) are abundant on many archaeological sites. 1758) are abundant on many archaeological sites This is the case, for instance, on most prehistoric sites from the Iberian Peninsula and the Mediterranean region where rabbits may have played a key role in subsistence, influencing human mobility and demography in the process As Stocker and Stocker (1996: 270) describe, “in its warren, like human corpses in a catacomb, the rabbit is the corporeal awaiting eternal life”. Notwithstanding their symbolism, rabbit farming remained an important component of the rural economy in many parts of Europe into the early twentieth century (Williamson, 2006:6− 13)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
