- Finding Shelter: Rabbits seek out sheltered areas to rest and hide from predators. In cities, they may find refuge in abandoned buildings, under bridges or overpasses, construction sites, parks and gardens with dense vegetation, and even burrows dug by other animals.
- Food Sources: Rabbits are herbivores and primarily feed on grasses, plants, herbs and leaves. In urban environments, they may find suitable vegetation in parks, gardens, yards, vacant lots, and even along roadsides. Some rabbits might also raid gardens and compost piles.
- Water: Rabbits need regular access to water for hydration. In cities, they may find water sources in ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams. Alternatively, they might drink from puddles, birdbaths, and even rain-filled containers.
- Adapting to Noise: Rabbits have sensitive hearing, but they adapt well to urban noises. They can become habituated to traffic sounds, human activities, and other noises associated with city life.
- Avoiding Predators: Urban environments present fewer natural predators compared to the wild. However, rabbits must remain vigilant against domestic animals like cats and dogs, as well as predators such as hawks and foxes that might venture into the city.
- Camouflage: Some rabbit species, like the Eastern cottontail, have coloration that helps them camouflage in urban settings. This can provide some protection against predators.
- Reproduction: As long as suitable habitat and resources are available, rabbits can reproduce successfully in urban areas. They can give birth to several litters per year, leading to a rapid increase in their population.
- Disease and Parasites: Urban rabbits are susceptible to various diseases and parasites, just like their wild counterparts. However, the presence of predators can help control the spread of diseases and parasites, limiting the impact on the rabbit population.
It's worth noting that while rabbits can survive in cities, their populations in urban environments are often managed and controlled by local authorities to prevent overpopulation, disease spread, and damage to vegetation.