Devin J
Rabbits are undoubtedly one of the cutest and most popular pets around. With their fluffy tails, button noses, and big ears, it’s no wonder we can’t resist their adorable charms. But did you know these creatures are full of fascinating quirks and behaviors? If your answer is no, keep reading to discover ten fascinating facts that might blow your mind!
Rabbits Are Crepuscular
Contrary to popular belief, rabbits are not nocturnal. They are actually crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. During the day, they like to take it easy and catch some Z’s. The low light during dawn and dusk offers them a safer time to emerge from their burrows to graze, socialize, and play.
Rabbits Are Fast Breeders
A female rabbit, or doe, can give birth to a litter of around 1-14 kits (baby rabbits) after a gestation period of just about 30 days. This prolific breeding ability is one reason why rabbits have been so successful as a species.
Rabbits Are Natural Recyclers
Rabbits are coprophagic, which means they eat their own poop. But before you get grossed out, hear us out. They do this to extract more nutrients from their food. Rabbits produce two types of droppings: hard, dry pellets they leave around and soft, moist cecotropes they eat directly from their bottoms. Cecotropes are packed with vitamins, minerals, and proteins that rabbits need.
They Can Jump up to 10 Feet in a Single Bound
Thanks to their powerful hind legs, bunnies are incredible jumpers. They can leap up to 3 feet vertically and 10 feet horizontally, an important survival skill in the wild. This impressive agility helps them evade predators and go about their environment with ease.
Rabbits Have 360-Degree Vision
Rabbits have almost panoramic vision, with a field of view of about 360 degrees. This is thanks to their large, protruding eyes that are positioned on the sides of their heads. However, they do have a small blind spot directly in front of their nose. Their vision is also not as sharp as ours, but they can detect motion very well.
They Are Born Blind and Deaf
Kits are born in a vulnerable state—unclad, blind, and deaf. Their eyes and ears are sealed shut for the first few days, which makes them rely on their mothers for warmth and nourishment. With time, they start to develop fur within a week, and by around four weeks old, they will have fully functioning senses.
Their Teeth Never Stop Growing
A rabbit’s teeth are constantly growing, with their incisors growing at a rate of approximately 2-3mm per week. This unique trait is key for their survival, as it ensures their teeth remain sharp and effective. To manage this continuous growth, bunnies must chew on fibrous foods like hay and wooden chew toys, which help to naturally wear down their teeth.
They Have a Unique Digestive System
As a result of their unique digestive system, rabbits are able to extract nutrients from plant material very efficiently. They have a large cecum, a pouch located at the junction of the small and large intestines. Bacteria in the cecum degrade cellulose, the main component of plant cell walls. This is why rabbits need a diet high in fiber from hay and grass.
Rabbits Communicate through Thumping
Rabbits have a unique way of communicating through thumping. When a rabbit thumps its hind legs on the ground, it’s usually a sign of danger or fear. The loud thump alerts other rabbits in the area to potential threats. Rabbits also communicate through a range of other vocalizations, including grunts, growls, and even purrs.
Rabbits Can Live up to 12 Years
While the average lifespan of a wild rabbit is only about 1-2 years due to predation and disease, pet rabbits can live much longer. With proper care and a healthy diet, domestic rabbits can live around 8-12 years. This is why it’s important to consider the long-term commitment before getting a rabbit as a pet.
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