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Rabbit, (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Rabbits have brown-grey fur, pale bellies and long ears (but these are relatively short compared with those of a hare). The underside of the tail is white – this can be seen as the rabbit runs away from danger, and acts as a warning to others nearby. Rabbits are not native to Britain; the Normans brought them here in the 12th century for their, then much-prized, fur and meat.

Today, rabbits are among our commonest and most widespread mammals. They live in a system of burrows called a warren. Rabbits use regular trails between their burrows and feeding areas, which often become worn and conspicuous. Rabbits are prolific breeders and populations can quickly increase in the right conditions.

These images were all taken at various sites on the Durham Moors in Derwentside, Wear and Tees Valleys. In late afternoon the Rabbits can be seen on most road side verges and with a little caution can be approached to enable photographs to be taken.

Canon 30D, Canon 100-400mm IS lens.

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