The effects of different foods on confined populations of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.)

Abstract

Six confined populations of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.) were fed combinations of pasture, supplementary freshly cut green herbage, oaten hay, and grain. The length of the breeding season, success in reproduction, growth rates, and survival were measured. When excess of food was present, high growth rates occurred in young rabbits. When green food was present, and especially if oat grain was present in excess, a high reproductive rate occurred and the incidence of disease in young rabbits was apparently reduced. The absence of green food greatly reduced the numbers and sizes of litters produced.