Rabbit vs. Hare

The order Lagomorpha (sometimes somewhat inaccurately translated simply as “hares”) is a taxonomic group of small mammals. It consists exclusively of herbivorous species and is today largely cosmopolitan in distribution. The above-mentioned order includes two families – Leporidae (hares and rabbits) and Ochotonidae (pikas). While pikas belong to rare and endangered species, selected representatives of the other family have been partially or fully domesticated (the European rabbit) and are bred in captivity. Although hares and rabbits show morphological differences resulting from their evolutionary development, their similar outward appearance often causes confusion among many people today.

Domestication of Rabbits

The domestication of the European rabbit began as early as antiquity, although it is generally considered one of the most recently domesticated species. Roman garrisons and later French monasteries played a significant role in this process. The domesticated species, the European rabbit, has fully adapted to human society and care.

It is estimated that there are approximately 180–200 breeds of domestic rabbits worldwide, differing in size, body shape, type and length of fur, and other characteristics. Rabbits were present in the historical territory of today’s Czech Republic no later than the 15th century, originally as a new game species. However, their domestic breeding and selective improvement were of considerable importance.

In contrast, the European hare has never been fully domesticated. Certain groups of hares used, for example, in game management or research may be partially domesticated, particularly for reproduction and subsequent reintroduction purposes.

Difference Between a Rabbit and a Hare

The European rabbit measures approximately 40 cm in length and reaches a weight of around 2 kg. It has a shorter, more rounded body. Its ears measure only about 8 cm. Originally native to the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa, it can now also be found in the wild in Central and Eastern Europe.

The European hare reaches a length of 50–70 cm and a weight of up to 6 kg. It has a taller build with slender but fast limbs. Its ears are distinctly long, ending in a prominent black tip. It naturally occurs across a wide range of Europe and partly inhabits Asia as well.

Reproductive Biology

The gestation period of a rabbit lasts approximately 30 days (29–32 days). Rabbits live in burrows with complex tunnel systems. The female gives birth there to young that are of the so-called altricial type—hairless, blind, deaf, and unable to regulate their body temperature. After nursing, the doe leaves them in a nest lined with fur and returns only the following day. Rabbits are social animals and live in colonies (one male and several females) with an established hierarchy. They prefer lower elevations and drier climates with sandy soils.

The gestation period of the hare lasts about 42 days, after which the female gives birth to 2 to 5 young. These are of the so-called precocial type—they are fully furred, can see and hear, and have developed thermoregulation. They are able to follow their mother almost immediately from the form, which she makes on the ground surface. Hares are solitary animals and live alone outside the mating season.

“Zaječí” – What Is It?