Why do rabbits freeze when they sense danger?

Rabbits freeze when they sense danger primarily as an avoidance behavior to minimize the likelihood of being detected by a predator. By remaining immobile, they reduce the chance of attracting attention in their environment.12

This freezing response is a natural survival strategy often paired with hiding under cover. If a predator does detect them and initiates a chase, rabbits shift to active evasion, utilizing their agility and speed to confuse the pursuer rather than relying solely on outrunning them.2