Wild rabbits rarely attack humans. Their primary defense is to flee from perceived danger rather than confront it. These timid animals almost always prioritize escape when threatened. Aggressive behavior towards humans is a last resort, occurring only under specific, unusual circumstances.
Natural Rabbit Behavior
Wild rabbits are prey animals, and their behaviors are largely shaped by this status. They are inherently wary and possess highly developed senses to detect potential predators. When sensing danger, their instinct is to freeze momentarily, then dart away at high speeds, often employing zigzag movements to evade pursuit. They commonly seek refuge in dense vegetation or underground burrows known as warrens.
These crepuscular animals are most active during dawn and dusk. Their diet primarily consists of grasses, wildflowers, and leaves, which they graze in open areas, typically close to protective cover. This foraging behavior, combined with their strong flight response, means they typically avoid close contact with humans.
Instances of Aggression
A wild rabbit might exhibit aggressive behavior if it feels cornered, trapped, or unable to escape. This can also occur if they are protecting their young or a nest, or if they are injured or severely ill. Such aggression might involve biting with their sharp incisors, scratching with their claws, or thumping their powerful hind legs. These actions are defensive, aimed at deterring a perceived threat and creating an opportunity to escape.
Potential Health Concerns
If bitten or scratched by a wild rabbit, potential health concerns exist. One risk is tularemia, often called “rabbit fever,” a bacterial disease caused by Francisella tularensis. Humans can contract tularemia through direct contact with infected animals, or via bites from infected ticks or deer flies that have fed on rabbits. Symptoms can include fever, skin ulcers at the site of exposure, and swollen lymph nodes.
While rabies in rabbits is exceptionally rare, and there are no known cases of human transmission from rabbits in the United States, it is theoretically possible for them to contract the virus. Other potential infections from a rabbit bite or scratch include those from bacteria like Pasteurella multocida, which can reside in a rabbit’s mouth. Proper wound care, including thorough cleaning with soap and water, is important after any contact. Medical attention should be sought to assess infection risk and determine necessary treatment.