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Browse the complete list of breeds and varieties for this species, along with the associations and federations that oversee them.

Species summary

The rabbit (mainly the European rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus, and its domestic form) is a lagomorph mammal, not an avian species. Adult size varies widely with breed: typical body length 20–60 cm, weight about 1–10 kg (dwarf to giant breeds). Lifespan in captivity commonly 6–12+ years (often 8–12), while wild individuals usually survive 1–3 years due to predation. Rabbits are herbivores (high-fiber diet), have a dental formula of 2/1 0/0 3/2 3/3 (28 teeth), and are highly fecund: gestation about 28–31 days, average litter size 4–6 kits, and they are induced ovulators.

Detailed origin

The ancestor of most domestic rabbits is the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), native to the Iberian Peninsula and parts of southwestern France. Humans transported and established populations worldwide from medieval and early-modern times onward; deliberate domestication and selective breeding intensified in Europe from the late Middle Ages and later. Wild populations occupy warrens in grassland, scrub and mixed farmland; the domestic population is highly diversified by selective breeding for meat, fur, show and companion purposes.

Detailed description

Morphology: compact body with long ears (commonly 6–10 cm in many breeds), powerful hind limbs adapted for leaping, short tail. Coat colors and patterns are highly variable across breeds. Reproductive biology: sexual maturity typically at 3–8 months depending on size and sex, gestation ~28–31 days, average 4–6 offspring per litter (ranges 1–12+), ability to produce multiple litters per year. Breed variation: dozens of recognized domestic breeds exist, ranging from dwarf types (1–2.5 kg) to large/giant types (>5 kg; Flemish Giant often 5–10+ kg). Key quantitative traits: dental count 28 teeth, typical captive lifespan 6–12 years, gestation ~30 days, litter average 4–6.

Available breeds

Known varieties