Can a domesticated pet rabbit survive in the wild?

Question

A few weeks ago one of my rabbits got out of my garden and disappeared onto farm land at the back of my house. I've seen him once since then, so I know he didn't die immediately, but could he survive in the wild? He's been neutered so he's not going to interfere with the natural order of wild rabbits.

Answer 1

Probably the biggest danger is predators...domestic rabbits are much slower, out-of-shape, and if he's not agouti colored, he'll stand out like a sore thumb.  Other than that he should be able to survive.

I would keep putting out food and water and hope to lure him back...

Answer 2

Rabbits are not bred to be tame and will most likely learn to be able to live in the wild, that instinct will kick in. they know they are prey animals and will act accordingly. There is a chance he will get caught by a predator just as any other rabbit might.

I would try luring him back to your house. Try lettuce, dark leafy greens. and guinea pig pellets, my rabbits seem to like them more than their rabbit pellets. I guess they have a sweeter taste.

Answer 3

there is a small chance. He is most likely used to getting food given to him, so it will be really hard for him

Answer 4

In areas that can provide adequate food for rabbits (like farmland), feral rabbits are surprisingly common. They are very quick to revert to their more wild behaviours.

The biggest risk to a feral rabbit is food shortage, but in a rural area, this isn't a big concern.

The second biggest risk is climate. Domesticated rabbits are cold-weather animals and don't do well outside in places where it gets really hot. Swampy or incredibly arid places are no good either.

The third biggest risk is predation. Especially rabbits with noticeable colours, either pale or black. These animals have a hard time hiding from predators, and it takes any rabbit a while to learn how to be afraid of the things he or she might have been used to, like people and dogs/cats.

If you want to get your rabbit back, all you have to do is get a humane trap from your local Animal Control or feed store and set it up where you last saw him. Bait it with fresh greens and fruit and check it twice a day.

Answer 5

no

he doesnt have theere instinct to survive in the wild because he has never known the wild