Predation risk, cover type, and group size in European rabbits in Donana (SW Spain)

Abstract

As European rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus, 1758) in SW Spain face high predation pressure, some antipredator tactics are expected. We examined rabbit group size in relation to the safety of the cover (sparse or dense), and the proximity to shrub cover. Stem density influenced the distance rabbits ventured from shrub; rabbits ventured greater distances when stem density in cover was higher. Rabbit group size was related to the distance to cover; solitary animals remained closer to protective cover, whereas rabbits in groups (≤ 3 animals) foraged further from cover. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the formation of rabbit groups is related to defense against predation, and that group size is influenced by risk of perception.