Rabbits are among the most recognizable and beloved animals in the world. From children’s books to scientific studies, these small, furry mammals have captivated human interest for centuries. But when, exactly, were rabbits “discovered”? The answer depends on how we interpret the term “discovered.” If we mean when humans first became aware of them, that would date back tens of thousands of years.
However, if we mean when they were first scientifically studied and classified or when they were introduced to different parts of the world, the timeline becomes more specific. This article explores the history of rabbits, from their ancient origins to their discovery by modern science and eventual domestication.
1. Ancient Origins: Evolution of Rabbits
Rabbits belong to the order Lagomorpha, which includes hares and pikas. Fossil evidence suggests that lagomorphs have existed for at least 50 million years. The earliest known ancestors of modern rabbits emerged during the Eocene epoch. These early mammals were small, rodent-like creatures that evolved independently from rodents, despite sharing some similarities.
The modern European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), the species most people are familiar with today, evolved in the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal) around 4 million years ago. The Romans, in fact, referred to the region as “Hispania,” a name that may have been inspired by the abundance of rabbits there. The Latin word for rabbit, cuniculus, is thought to have its roots in the Iberian language.
Early Human Interaction with Rabbitss have interacted with rabbits for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows that prehistoric humans hunted rabbits for food as early as 120,000 years ago. Rabbit bones have been found in ancient human settlements across Europe and the Middle East, often in cooking pits and fire sites.
In addition to being hunted, rabbits also appear in early cave paintings and carvings, indicating that they held some symbolic or cultural significance. For example, rabbits appear in Native American folklore, African stories, and East Asian traditions. In many myths, rabbits are portrayed as clever tricksters or symbols of fertility and rebirth. (See Also: Do Rat Snakes Eat Rabbits)
2. Domestication of Rabbits
The domestication of rabbits is a relatively recent event in human history. Unlike dogs or cattle, which were domesticated thousands of years ago, rabbits were not systematically bred by humans until the Middle Ages. According to historical records, French monks were among the first people to domesticate rabbits around the 5th to 6th centuries AD.
The monks began breeding rabbits in captivity for food, especially during Lent when other meats were prohibited. Since rabbit fetuses were considered “fish” by some interpretations of religious law, they became a popular alternative protein source. Over time, these monks selectively bred rabbits to make them tamer, easier to handle, and more productive in captivity.
By the 16th century, domesticated rabbits had spread throughout Europe. Selective breeding led to the development of various breeds with different colors, sizes, and fur types. This marked the beginning of the rabbit as a pet and show animal, not just a food source.
3. Scientific Discovery and Classification
The formal scientific discovery and classification of rabbits began in earnest during the 18th century, with the rise of taxonomy as a scientific discipline. Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus, the father of modern taxonomy, classified the European rabbit as Lepus cuniculus in his Systema Naturae (1735). Later, the genus Oryctolagus was created to distinguish the European rabbit from hares, which are larger and have different reproductive and behavioral traits.
Scientific interest in rabbits grew in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in the fields of genetics and biology. Rabbits became important laboratory animals, used in genetic studies, vaccine testing, and reproductive research. The ease of breeding rabbits and their relatively short gestation period made them ideal for controlled experiments.
One of the most famous uses of rabbits in science was in the development of vaccines. Louis Pasteur, the pioneer of germ theory and vaccination, used rabbits in his experiments involving rabies. Later, rabbits were used in early pregnancy tests and in the development of various medical treatments.
4. Rabbits Around the World: Global Introduction
Although native to the Iberian Peninsula and parts of North Africa, the European rabbit has been introduced to many parts of the world. Often, these introductions have had unintended ecological consequences.
For example, rabbits were introduced to Australia in the 18th century by European settlers. Originally brought for hunting and food, the rabbits quickly multiplied due to a lack of natural predators. By the late 19th century, they had become a major pest, devastating crops and native vegetation. The rabbit problem in Australia is one of the most infamous examples of how introducing non-native species can disrupt ecosystems.
Similarly, rabbits have been introduced to New Zealand, parts of South America, and various islands around the world. In many cases, their ability to reproduce rapidly and adapt to different environments has made them invasive species.
Conclusion: A Long History of Discovery
So, when were rabbits discovered? In truth, rabbits have never really been “discovered” in the traditional sense—they have always been a part of the natural world and human experience. From their ancient evolutionary roots to their domestication by monks and their role in modern science, rabbits have had a long, complex relationship with humanity.
While their formal scientific classification is only a few centuries old, humans have known about and interacted with rabbits for tens of thousands of years. Whether as a source of food, a symbol in mythology, or a beloved pet, rabbits continue to play a meaningful role in our lives. Their journey from wild creature to domesticated companion is a testament to the deep connections between humans and the natural world.