Reproductive behaviour and rearing of offspring
The main mating season extends from the beginning of February to the end of September. Day length, climate, and feed availability influence the start and duration of the mating season. In good years, the females have several litters.
The social rank of rabbits within their group has a significant effect on their breeding success.
During foreplay, the following behaviours can be observed:
- Anogenital sniffing
- Jumping over the back
- Parallel hopping/‘parading‘
- Circling around each other
Signs of a female being receptive are:
- Reddened vulva
- Restlessness
- Chin rubbing
- Lordosis (lies flat on floor, raised hindquarters)
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