The European or Old World rab`bit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is the only genus of domestic rabbits. Wild rabbits and hares include cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus spp) and the “true” hares or jackrabbits (Lepus spp). Rabbits have been bred for fur, meat, wool, exhibition (shows), and for use as laboratory animals. The closest relative to the rabbit is the pika (Ochotona spp), are two species which live in mountainous areas in Asia and in North America. Rabbits are classified as lagomorphs, not rodents.
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