Rab′bit, a rodent with long ears, belonging to the same genus as the hares. The smaller burrowing varieties are called rabbits; the larger ones and those that do not construct a burrow are called hares. Hares are born with fur and open eyes; rabbits, naked and blind. A typical hare is large, has long ears and legs, is a swift and tireless runner; rabbits are small, have short ears and legs, and are not strong runners. Both hares and rabbits have numerous enemies, who cause their timidity and tremors. The so-called jack-rabbit really is a jack-hare. The cotton-tail is a typical rabbit. They feed on grass, herbs and tender bark. Those in captivity will eat nearly all kinds of vegetables and at times should be given dry food, as shelled corn. The tame rabbits have been modified and varied by selection and breeding. They multiply rapidly, having from four to eight litters a year. They were introduced into Australia about the middle of the 19th century and into New Zealand in 1860. They multiplied till they were a great menace to the crops and to vegetation. The government offered a bounty for their skins, and in a single year more than twenty-five millions were killed in New South Wales alone. The skin is of little value, but the hair has been used in making the body for felt hats. See Hare.
