As a wildlife expert with a keen interest in the history and ecology of Australia, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about the presence of bunnies, specifically European rabbits, in Australia.

The introduction of the European rabbit, *Oryctolagus cuniculus*, to Australia is a significant event in the country's ecological history. The rabbits were brought over by the First Fleet in the late 18th century, and they were initially used for food and sport. However, due to their prolific breeding habits and the absence of natural predators in Australia, the rabbit population quickly expanded beyond control.

The rabbits became a major agricultural pest, causing extensive damage to crops and native vegetation. Their burrowing activities also led to soil erosion and the degradation of habitats for other native species. The impact of rabbits on the Australian ecosystem was so severe that it led to a series of control measures, including the construction of rabbit-proof fences and the introduction of diseases such as myxomatosis and the rabbit calicivirus.

Despite these efforts, rabbits remain a persistent presence in Australia. They have adapted to various environments, from arid deserts to lush rainforests, and their numbers can still fluctuate significantly depending on the availability of food and the effectiveness of control measures. The Australian government and various conservation organizations continue to monitor rabbit populations and implement strategies to mitigate their impact on the environment.

It's also important to note that while the European rabbit is the most well-known, there are other species of rabbits that have been introduced to Australia and have established populations. These include the eastern cottontail and the European hare, which also have the potential to become invasive and cause ecological damage.

In conclusion, the presence of rabbits in Australia is a complex issue that involves historical, ecological, and agricultural considerations. The efforts to control the rabbit population are ongoing, and the situation serves as a cautionary tale about the potential consequences of introducing non-native species into an ecosystem.

read more >>

European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were introduced to Australia in the 18th century with the First Fleet and eventually became widespread. Such wild rabbit populations are a serious mammalian pest and invasive species in Australia causing millions of dollars of damage to crops.read more >>