Adult and young Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are frequently seen grazing in the hay meadows (Fields 1 and 2) and around Downlee Lodge barn and garden, throughout the year. Unlike hares, their white tails are seen bobbing as they hop away.
The Brown Hare (Lepus europaeus) is much less common here and is now a local Biodiversity Action Plan species. Hares are mainly active at night but may sometimes be seen in daytime, at any time of year and on any of the fields that make up the wildlife site and even, occasionally, around Downlee Lodge. Always a delight to see. Distinguished from the Rabbit by the Hares larger size, longer black-tipped ears and characteristic running gait. They breed on the site.
Photographs of Rabbit and Brown Hare
Click on the photograph for larger images and captions.
Further Information
For further information on the species in this group, please click the links below:
Rabbit Brown Hare