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Study looks at how domestic rabbits become feral
“We hope that this study will help lawmakers understand the importance of preventing domestic animals from being released into the wild" - Leif Andersson.
Researchers found mix of domestic and feral DNA in introduced rabbits.

A new study has uncovered the genetic changes that help domestic rabbits re-adapt to living back in the wild.

The researchers, who looked at the DNA of almost 300 rabbits from three continents, found that many of the characteristics which have been bred into rabbits as part of their domestication are lost through natural selection in feral populations.

Genomes of 297 Europeans rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) from Europe, South American and Oceania were sequenced by scientists from Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (VMBS), USA, in collaboration with the Research Center in Biodiversity and Genetic Resources, Portugal.

To their surprise, the researchers found that the rabbits from introduced populations had a mix of feral and domestic DNA.

Leif Andersson, a professor in the VMBS’ Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences and a professor at Uppsala University in Sweden, said: “This was not what we had expected to find — we expected that feral rabbits were domestic rabbits that have somehow relearned how to live in the wild.

“But our findings show us that these rabbits already had a portion of wild DNA helping them survive in nature.”

The genetic changes in feral rabbit populations not only included genes that influence things such as coat colour, but also genes that affect elements of behaviour such as tameness.

Rabbits have been introduced by humans around the world, sometimes with a significant impact on local environments and ecosystems. The researchers are hopeful that the study will offer insights for those looking at other feral populations.

Dr Andersson added: “We hope that this study will help lawmakers understand the importance of preventing domestic animals from being released into the wild.

“This project has helped us understand not only how rabbits become feral but also how other species like pigs and cats can become feral nuisances.”

The study has been published in the journal Nature Ecology and Evolution.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.