Likely introduced in the 12th century, the Wild Rabbit is not native to Britain but is now considered a keystone species. Brian Boag reviews the history of the Rabbit in Britain and the implications of its decline for people and wildlife.
The Wild Rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus (referred to hereafter simply as Rabbit) is one of the most famous and recognisable wild animals in Britain, made popular through children’s books, such as the Peter Rabbit stories by Beatrix Potter, and the wartime song ‘Run Rabbit Run’ by Noel Gay and Ralph Butler.