Introduction
Main name: European Rabbit
Scientific name: Oryctolagus cuniculus
Other common names: Coney
Physical Characteristics
The European rabbit has short, rounded ears, a round face, and bright, dark eyes. Its appearance and fur coloration are very similar to those of a wild hare.
Fur Features
Its coat has two distinct layers — a soft white undercoat covered by yellowish-brown outer fur that provides camouflage and warmth.
Temperament
European rabbits are social, lively, and active animals that enjoy group living and often bond closely with humans. Each rabbit, however, has its own individual personality, and the level of friendliness may vary from one to another.
The Domestication of the European Rabbit
Supplementary Note: During the process of domesticating pet rabbits, one particular color group was preserved in its original form. This lineage is known as the European rabbit or domesticated burrowing rabbit.
Unlike hares, the European rabbit has a distinctive habit—it loves to dig. Even when faced with floors made of tiles or concrete, where digging is impossible, it still engages in the motion enthusiastically.
Although the European rabbit and true hares may appear similar at first glance, they are quite different in many ways. True hares belong to the genus Lepus rather than Oryctolagus, and their limbs and bodies are longer and slimmer. Moreover, hares do not dig burrows as rabbits do.
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