Colonies - Revision history

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References

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	1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024		2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17482618/#:~:text=Abstract,and%20responses%20to%20behavioural%20tests.

	3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019		3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019
			https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19827358/

	4. ~~Dalle Zotte~~, A., ~~Paci, G., Cullere, M.~~, & ~~Szendrő~~, Zs. (~~2009~~). Effect of restricted feeding and ~~group housing on performance,~~ carcass traits~~, and meat quality in~~ rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.		4. Szendrő, Zsolt & Romvári, Róbert & Matics, Zsolt & Radnai, István. (2022). Effect of restricted feeding on productive and carcass traits of rabbits. Acta Agraria Kaposváriensis. 26. 27-39. 10.31914/aak.2946.


	5. ~~Szendrő~~, Zs., Szabó~~-Szentgróti~~, E., & ~~Dalle Zotte~~, A. (~~2012~~). ~~Effect~~ of housing system on ~~the~~ carcass traits and meat quality of ~~rabbits~~. World Rabbit ~~Science, 20(1), 1–9~~.		5. Metzger, Sz & Kustos, K. & Szendrő, Zsolt & Szabó, András & Eiben, Csilla & István, Nagy. (2010). The effect of housing system on carcass traits and meat quality of rabbit. World Rabbit Sci.. 11. 10.4995/wrs.2003.492.

	6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622		6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

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References

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	1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547.		2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024

	3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166.		3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019

	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.		4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.

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References

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	== References ==		== References ==

	~~Relinquish all studies doi generated wrong. Fixed one ..~~

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Colony Housing of Domestic Rabbits

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	= Colony Housing of Domestic Rabbits =		= Colony Housing of Domestic Rabbits =

	'''Colony housing''' is a management system in which domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') are kept together in large shared enclosures rather than individually ~~or in pairs~~. While some breeders and hobbyists use this approach, the system presents significant welfare, management, and production challenges. Research generally concludes that the disadvantages outweigh the benefits for both rabbits and caretakers.		'''Colony housing''' is a management system in which domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') are kept together in large shared enclosures rather than individually . While some breeders and hobbyists use this approach, the system presents significant welfare, management, and production challenges. Research generally concludes that the disadvantages outweigh the benefits for both rabbits and caretakers.

	== Challenges of Colony Housing ==		== Challenges of Colony Housing ==
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	Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed (1). Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.		Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed (1). Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.

	Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually ~~or pair-~~housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers (2).		Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers (2).

	=== Space Requirements ===		=== Space Requirements ===
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	== Summary ==		== Summary ==
	While colony housing of rabbits may appear “natural,” it exposes animals to heightened risks of aggression, injury, disease, predation, reproductive mismanagement, and reduced meat quality. Research consistently finds that domestic rabbits, unlike their wild ancestors, fare better in systems that minimize stress, allow individual care, and provide controlled breeding and hygiene. For these reasons, most commercial and pedigree breeders avoid colony housing in favor of individual ~~or pair~~ housing systems.		While colony housing of rabbits may appear “natural,” it exposes animals to heightened risks of aggression, injury, disease, predation, reproductive mismanagement, and reduced meat quality. Research consistently finds that domestic rabbits, unlike their wild ancestors, fare better in systems that minimize stress, allow individual care, and provide controlled breeding and hygiene. For these reasons, most commercial and pedigree breeders avoid colony housing in favor of individual housing systems.

	== References ==		== References ==

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References

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	== References ==		== References ==

			Relinquish all studies doi generated wrong. Fixed one ..


	1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. ~~doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)~~		2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547.

	3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. ~~doi:[10.14411/fp.2009.019](https://doi.org/10.14411/fp.2009.019)~~		3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166.

	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. ~~doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)~~		4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.

	5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. ~~doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)~~		5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9.

	6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. ~~doi:[10.3390/ani12223177](~~https://~~doi~~.~~org~~/10~~.3390~~/~~ani12223177)~~		6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

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References

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	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)		4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)

	5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)		5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)

			6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. doi:[10.3390/ani12223177](https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12223177)

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References

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	Across studies, colony or park rabbits consistently showed tougher meat and higher physiological stress responses than rabbits kept in cage or pen systems.		Across studies, colony or park rabbits consistently showed tougher meat and higher physiological stress responses than rabbits kept in cage or pen systems.

	~~== References ==~~
	~~1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.~~

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)

	~~3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. doi:[10.14411/fp.2009.019](https://doi.org/10.14411/fp.2009.019)~~

	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)

	5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)

	6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. doi:[10.3390/ani12223177](https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12223177)

	== Summary ==		== Summary ==

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Effects on Stress and Meat Quality

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 * Dalle Zotte et al. (2009) found restricted feeding and group housing negatively affected carcass traits and meat tenderness (4).
 * Szendrő et al. (2012) reported that cage-raised rabbits yielded superior meat quality compared to colony housing (5).
-Across studies, colony rabbits consistently showed tougher meat due to higher stress levels.
+Across studies, colony or park rabbits consistently showed tougher meat and higher physiological stress responses than rabbits kept in cage or pen systems.
 == Summary ==

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	=== Territoriality and Aggression ===		=== Territoriality and Aggression ===
	Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed~~.<ref>Mykytowycz, R.~~ (~~1958~~). ~~Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, ''Oryctolagus cuniculus'' (L.). ''CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper''.</ref>~~ Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.		Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed (1). Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.

	Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually or pair-housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers~~.<ref>Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. ''Italian Journal of Animal Science'', 6~~(~~sup1~~)~~, 537–547~~. ~~doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)</ref>~~		Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually or pair-housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers (2).

	=== Space Requirements ===		=== Space Requirements ===
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	=== Predators, Parasites, and Pathogens ===		=== Predators, Parasites, and Pathogens ===
	Colony rabbits housed on soil are highly vulnerable to the “three P’s”: predators, parasites, and pathogens. Soil environments promote persistence of coccidia (''Eimeria'' spp.), ''Pasteurella'', and other pathogens that are difficult to eliminate once established~~.<ref>Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. ''Folia Parasitologica'', 56~~(3)~~, 153–166. doi:[10~~.~~14411/fp.2009.019](https://doi.org/10.14411/fp.2009.019)</ref>~~ Parasite loads are consistently higher in ground systems than in cage or pen housing.		Colony rabbits housed on soil are highly vulnerable to the “three P’s”: predators, parasites, and pathogens. Soil environments promote persistence of coccidia (''Eimeria'' spp.), ''Pasteurella'', and other pathogens that are difficult to eliminate once established (3). Parasite loads are consistently higher in ground systems than in cage or pen housing.

	=== Breeding Control ===		=== Breeding Control ===
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	== Effects on Stress and Meat Quality ==		== Effects on Stress and Meat Quality ==
	Behavioral and physiological studies indicate that rabbits in colonies experience higher baseline stress and fear responses than those in individual or controlled group housing~~.<ref>Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. ''Italian Journal of Animal Science'', 6~~(~~sup1~~)~~, 537–547~~. ~~doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)</ref>~~ Elevated cortisol levels have been measured in colony environments, comparable to wild counterparts that must remain constantly vigilant.		Behavioral and physiological studies indicate that rabbits in colonies experience higher baseline stress and fear responses than those in individual or controlled group housing (2). Elevated cortisol levels have been measured in colony environments, comparable to wild counterparts that must remain constantly vigilant.

	Contrary to some anecdotal claims, colony housing does not improve meat quality. Multiple controlled studies have shown that cage- or pen-raised rabbits produce carcasses with better tenderness, higher consumer acceptance, and lower cooking loss:		Contrary to some anecdotal claims, colony housing does not improve meat quality. Multiple controlled studies have shown that cage- or pen-raised rabbits produce carcasses with better tenderness, higher consumer acceptance, and lower cooking loss:

	* Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. ''Meat Science'', 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)<ref>Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009)~~. Effect of~~ restricted feeding and group housing ~~on performance,~~ carcass traits, and meat ~~quality in rabbits. ''Meat Science'', 81~~(4)~~, 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11~~.~~017)</ref>~~		* Dalle Zotte et al. (2009) found restricted feeding and group housing negatively affected carcass traits and meat tenderness (4).
	* Szendrő~~, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A~~. (2012)~~. Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and~~ meat quality ~~of rabbits. ''World Rabbit Science'', 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)<ref>Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of~~ housing ~~system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. ''World Rabbit Science'', 20~~(1)~~, 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10~~.~~4995/wrs.2012.1032)</ref>~~		* Szendrő et al. (2012) reported that cage-raised rabbits yielded superior meat quality compared to colony housing (5).

	Across studies, colony rabbits consistently showed tougher meat due to higher stress levels.		Across studies, colony rabbits consistently showed tougher meat due to higher stress levels.
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	== References ==		== References ==
	~~<references~~/>		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.

			2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)

			3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. doi:[10.14411/fp.2009.019](https://doi.org/10.14411/fp.2009.019)

			4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)

			5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)

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	~~VERY generalized and condensed review~~ of ~~Colony housing .~~		= Colony Housing of Domestic Rabbits =

	~~Their~~ are ~~way more cons then pros~~ in ~~Colony keeping~~. ~~But many still choose~~ this ~~form of housing. Issues with colonies are you need space~~, ~~young rabbits~~, and ~~be willing to walk away and not interfere with territorial fighting~~.		'''Colony housing''' is a management system in which domestic rabbits (''Oryctolagus cuniculus'') are kept together in large shared enclosures rather than individually or in pairs. While some breeders and hobbyists use this approach, the system presents significant welfare, management, and production challenges. Research generally concludes that the disadvantages outweigh the benefits for both rabbits and caretakers.
	~~Colonies can take up to a year to establish and a few years to allow natural selection take it course~~ for ~~disease resistance, although even then that doesn't prevent a deadly out break of a new disease~~ and ~~many have lost their entire colony over night to a new~~ ~~pathogen or a determined stray dog.~~

			== Challenges of Colony Housing ==

	~~If you choose to start a colony it is not recommended to use older stock, so if you already have rabbits you would basically have to start over completely with young fresh stock.~~ Rabbits are ~~EXTREMELY~~ territorial~~, not every Rabbit will be able to be housed in a colony setting even when introduced young~~. ~~Selecting Rabbits suited to colony life has~~ a ~~Lot to do with Ample~~ space ~~and disposition~~. ~~Colony focused groups tell you to throw them all~~ in ~~together and walk away as the fur flys~~, ~~and do~~ not ~~interfere with territorial fights~~. ~~You may come back 24 hours latter as recommended to ripped ears~~, ~~flesh~~, ~~neutered or mutilated and dead suffering~~ rabbits~~. That is not~~ a ~~risk I choose to knowingly exposé my stock to, but is part~~ of ~~the risk with setting up a new colony~~.		=== Territoriality and Aggression ===
			Rabbits are highly territorial animals. Introducing multiple animals into a shared space often results in severe fighting, injuries, or death, especially during the establishment phase. Rabbits establish dominance hierarchies in which dominant individuals demand submission from subordinates daily, with violence occurring if this is not displayed.<ref>Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, ''Oryctolagus cuniculus'' (L.). ''CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper''.</ref> Subordinate rabbits often live in a chronic state of stress.

	~~Bear minimum of space needed for each rabbit~~ to ~~mark out it's territory within a colony~~ to ~~where it feels safe~~ and ~~will not challenge another~~ rabbit ~~is a minimum 50sqft Per Doe~~ (~~80sqft being better~~), ~~and minimum 30 sqft per~~ (~~50sqft being better) single buck with Does~~. ~~This may NOT be enough space for all rabbits to live peacefully in a colony as some does may want to hold a larger area~~.		Studies on colony-housed domestic rabbits have shown elevated aggression compared to individually or pair-housed rabbits, leading to increased injuries and stress markers.<ref>Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. ''Italian Journal of Animal Science'', 6(sup1), 537–547. doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)</ref>

	~~Secondary issues with colonies arise from the fact that rabbits living on the ground~~ are ~~very susceptible to the three P's , predators, parasites~~ and ~~pathogens~~. ~~It can be harder~~ to ~~catch early and treat diseases in a colony~~ , ~~and even harder to eradicate pathogens and parasites from soil~~.		=== Space Requirements ===
			To reduce aggression, large amounts of space are required. Practical observations suggest a minimum of 50–80 square feet per doe and 30–50 square feet per buck when housed with does. Even at these levels, some animals may attempt to claim larger areas, making full compatibility difficult.

	~~Other issues~~ are ~~rabbits aren't always nice~~ to ~~babies~~, ~~many are just bad mothers~~, and ~~when allowed to go to ground to nest you may never find those failed litters~~, ~~if you run more then one buck, pedigree tracking becomes impossible~~, and ~~you lose control over being able~~ to ~~select for better traits and being able to select for type to improve your stock~~, ~~so you need to consider management~~ systems ~~and breeding~~.		=== Predators, Parasites, and Pathogens ===
			Colony rabbits housed on soil are highly vulnerable to the “three P’s”: predators, parasites, and pathogens. Soil environments promote persistence of coccidia (''Eimeria'' spp.), ''Pasteurella'', and other pathogens that are difficult to eliminate once established.<ref>Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. ''Folia Parasitologica'', 56(3), 153–166. doi:[10.14411/fp.2009.019](https://doi.org/10.14411/fp.2009.019)</ref> Parasite loads are consistently higher in ground systems than in cage or pen housing.

	If ~~the~~ buck is ~~left~~ with ~~the doe~~, ~~does will be bred~~ back to back ~~a practice many try to avoid becuse it~~ can exhaust ~~the doe physically~~.		=== Breeding Control ===
			When multiple bucks are present, pedigree tracking becomes impossible. Litters may be lost if does nest underground, and failed litters may go unnoticed. If a buck is housed permanently with does, continuous back-to-back breeding occurs, which can physically exhaust does.

	~~Mentally rabbits that were studied~~ in ~~a colony setting actually showed to have more fear~~ and ~~higher cortisol levels becuse like their wild counterparts they had to remain on alert for extended period of time to watch for threats from predators~~ and ~~other rabbits~~.		=== Maternal Behavior ===
			Not all does display good maternal behavior in colonies. Some kill or injure kits, and kits born in underground burrows may be unrecoverable. This complicates both welfare management and selective breeding programs.

	~~Domesticated rabbits descend from European wild rabbits. European wild rabbits live in groups depending upon resources available. The more resources that are available, the less tightly they group,~~ and ~~actually prefer quite a bit of distance from the other rabbits. A literature review concluded~~ that ~~wild~~ rabbits ~~are either dominant or subordinate and the subordinate animals live~~ in ~~a constant state of~~ stress and fear ~~when~~ in a group ~~setting~~. ~~Dominant animals require submission from subordinate daily~~, and ~~if not performed~~, ~~leads to violent fighting~~.		== Effects on Stress and Meat Quality ==
	~~Domesticated rabbits allowed to live~~ in ~~colonies showed much aggression to each other~~, ~~and the reviewers came~~ to ~~the conclusion~~ that ~~rabbits are very aggressively territorial animals and for their safety, should be housed individually~~. ~~The Social Nature of European Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)~~		Behavioral and physiological studies indicate that rabbits in colonies experience higher baseline stress and fear responses than those in individual or controlled group housing.<ref>Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. ''Italian Journal of Animal Science'', 6(sup1), 537–547. doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)</ref> Elevated cortisol levels have been measured in colony environments, comparable to wild counterparts that must remain constantly vigilant.

	~~a Colony of 5 rabbits would need no less then 25 ft x 10ft~~ , ~~enclosure for 5 rabbits to keep safety in a~~ colony.		Contrary to some anecdotal claims, colony housing does not improve meat quality. Multiple controlled studies have shown that cage- or pen-raised rabbits produce carcasses with better tenderness, higher consumer acceptance, and lower cooking loss:

	~~__________________________________~~		* Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. ''Meat Science'', 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)<ref>Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. ''Meat Science'', 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)</ref>
			* Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. ''World Rabbit Science'', 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)<ref>Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. ''World Rabbit Science'', 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)</ref>

	tougher meat~~. blog is being included for a reference~~ to ~~a tiktok comment that claimed otherwise~~. as it ~~was the only reference I could find online~~.~~. look for any paper~~ that ~~support~~ that ~~coloy has more tender meat~~.~~. so far all paper say cage raised , less stress~~ , ~~better meat qualities~~ and ~~has been repeated~~ in ~~5 studies and counting~~.		Across studies, colony rabbits consistently showed tougher meat due to higher stress levels.
	~~https://kummerhomestead.com/raising-rabbits-in-a-colony~~/
			== Summary ==
			While colony housing of rabbits may appear “natural,” it exposes animals to heightened risks of aggression, injury, disease, predation, reproductive mismanagement, and reduced meat quality. Research consistently finds that domestic rabbits, unlike their wild ancestors, fare better in systems that minimize stress, allow individual care, and provide controlled breeding and hygiene. For these reasons, most commercial and pedigree breeders avoid colony housing in favor of individual or pair housing systems.

			== References ==
			<references/>

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:40, 26 August 2025
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	1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024		2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17482618/#:~:text=Abstract,and%20responses%20to%20behavioural%20tests.

	3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019		3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019
			https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19827358/

	4. ~~Dalle Zotte~~, A., ~~Paci, G., Cullere, M.~~, & ~~Szendrő~~, Zs. (~~2009~~). Effect of restricted feeding and ~~group housing on performance,~~ carcass traits~~, and meat quality in~~ rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.		4. Szendrő, Zsolt & Romvári, Róbert & Matics, Zsolt & Radnai, István. (2022). Effect of restricted feeding on productive and carcass traits of rabbits. Acta Agraria Kaposváriensis. 26. 27-39. 10.31914/aak.2946.


	5. ~~Szendrő~~, Zs., Szabó~~-Szentgróti~~, E., & ~~Dalle Zotte~~, A. (~~2012~~). ~~Effect~~ of housing system on ~~the~~ carcass traits and meat quality of ~~rabbits~~. World Rabbit ~~Science, 20(1), 1–9~~.		5. Metzger, Sz & Kustos, K. & Szendrő, Zsolt & Szabó, András & Eiben, Csilla & István, Nagy. (2010). The effect of housing system on carcass traits and meat quality of rabbit. World Rabbit Sci.. 11. 10.4995/wrs.2003.492.

	6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622		6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:27, 26 August 2025
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	1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper. https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr DOI: 10.1071/CWR9590001

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547.		2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. PMID: 17482618 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2007.03.024

	3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166.		3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. PMID: 19827358 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2009.019

	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.		4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:46, 19 August 2025
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	== References ==		== References ==

			Relinquish all studies doi generated wrong. Fixed one ..


	1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.		1. Mykytowycz, R. (1958). Social behaviour of an experimental colony of wild rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus (L.). CSIR Wildlife Research Section Technical Paper.

	2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547. ~~doi:[10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537](https://doi.org/10.4081/ijas.2007.s1.537)~~		2. Verga, M., Luzi, F., & Carenzi, C. (2007). Welfare aspects in rabbit rearing and transport. Italian Journal of Animal Science, 6(sup1), 537–547.

	3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166. ~~doi:[10.14411/fp.2009.019](https://doi.org/10.14411/fp.2009.019)~~		3. Pakandl, M. (2009). Coccidia of rabbit: a review. Folia Parasitologica, 56(3), 153–166.

	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. ~~doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)~~		4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678.

	5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. ~~doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)~~		5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9.

	6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. ~~doi:[10.3390/ani12223177](~~https://~~doi~~.~~org~~/10~~.3390~~/~~ani12223177)~~		6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/10/1622

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:30, 17 August 2025
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	4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)		4. Dalle Zotte, A., Paci, G., Cullere, M., & Szendrő, Zs. (2009). Effect of restricted feeding and group housing on performance, carcass traits, and meat quality in rabbits. Meat Science, 81(4), 674–678. doi:[10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.meatsci.2008.11.017)

	5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)		5. Szendrő, Zs., Szabó-Szentgróti, E., & Dalle Zotte, A. (2012). Effect of housing system on the carcass traits and meat quality of rabbits. World Rabbit Science, 20(1), 1–9. doi:[10.4995/wrs.2012.1032](https://doi.org/10.4995/wrs.2012.1032)

			6. Jilge, B., Kemper, N., Krieter, J., & Fels, M. (2022). Preliminary evidence regarding the detection of cortisol and IL-6 to assess animal welfare in various rabbit housing systems. Animals, 12(22), 3177. doi:[10.3390/ani12223177](https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12223177)