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Which predators eat rabbits?
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rabbit
European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus).
Rabbits are important components of many terrestrial food chains and are preyed upon by a wide variety of mammals and birds that rely on them as dietary staples.1
Common predators of rabbits include:
- Mammals: Wolves, foxes, bobcats, and weasels. Additionally, feral dogs and cats are known to prey on certain rabbit populations.12
- Birds: Hawks, eagles, and owls.1
- Others: In some regions, introduced species such as mongooses also pose a threat to rabbit populations.2
To evade these predators, rabbits have evolved several survival strategies. They often rely on their long ears to detect danger and typically freeze or hide under cover when threatened. If chased, they utilize quick, irregular movements to confuse their pursuers, aided by skeletal adaptations that allow for high-speed agility.13