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Simple Summary: Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is a multi-host zoonotic bacterium of public and animal health concern, with Spain being the European country with the highest number of Q fever cases in recent years. However, and despite that the European wild rabbit and the Iberian hare are two keystone species in the Iberian Peninsula and are considered important sources of food for humans, very little is known about the epidemiological role of these two species. To tackle this question, a cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorph populations of Southern Spain. Antibodies against this bacterium were found in 11.3% of 471 wild rabbits, and, for the first time, in 2.4% of 167 Iberian hares, which provides evidence of the moderate circulation of C. burnetii in wild lagomorph populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Our results also demonstrated that wild lagomorphs from western Andalusia and those from hunting grounds in which sheep were present were at higher risk of exposure to C. burnetii. In this context, these risk factors should be prioritized in future risk-based surveillance programs for this zoonotic multi-host bacterium. Coxiella burnetii is an important zoonotic pathogen of worldwide distribution that can infect a wide range of wild and domestic species. The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) can play a role as a reservoir for this bacterium in certain epidemiological scenarios, but, to date, a very limited numbers of large-scale serosurveys have been conducted for this species worldwide. Although exposure in hare species has also been described, C. burnetii in Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) has never been assessed. Here, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain. Between the 2018/2019 and 2021/2022 hunting seasons, blood samples from 638 wild lagomorphs, including 471 wild rabbits and 167 Iberian hares, were collected from 112 hunting grounds distributed across all eight provinces of Andalusia (southern Spain). The overall apparent individual seroprevalence was 8.9% (57/638; 95% CI: 6.8–11.4). Antibodies against C. burnetii were found in 11.3% (53/471; 95% CI: 8.4–14.1) of the wild rabbits and 2.4% (4/167; 95% CI: 0.1–4.7) of the Iberian hares. Seropositive animals were detected for 16 (14.3%; 95% CI: 7.8–20.8) of the 112 hunting grounds tested and in all the hunting seasons sampled. A generalized estimating equations model showed that the geographical area (western Andalusia) and presence of sheep were risk factors potentially associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs. A statistically significant spatial cluster (p < 0.001) was identified in the south-west of Andalusia. Our results provide evidence of moderate, endemic and heterogeneous circulation of C. burnetii in wild lagomorph populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Risk-based strategies for integrative surveillance programs should be implemented in these species to reduce the risk of transmission of the bacterium to sympatric species, including humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coxiella burnetii is an important zoonotic pathogen of worldwide distribution that can infect a wide range of wild and domestic species. The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) can play a role as a reservoir for this bacterium in certain epidemiological scenarios, but, to date, a very limited numbers of large-scale serosurveys have been conducted for this species worldwide. Although exposure in hare species has also been described, C. burnetii in Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) has never been assessed. Here, we aimed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs in the Mediterranean ecosystems of southern Spain. Between the 2018/2019 and 2021/2022 hunting seasons, blood samples from 638 wild lagomorphs, including 471 wild rabbits and 167 Iberian hares, were collected from 112 hunting grounds distributed across all eight provinces of Andalusia (southern Spain). The overall apparent individual seroprevalence was 8.9% (57/638; 95% CI: 6.8–11.4). Antibodies against C. burnetii were found in 11.3% (53/471; 95% CI: 8.4–14.1) of the wild rabbits and 2.4% (4/167; 95% CI: 0.1–4.7) of the Iberian hares. Seropositive animals were detected for 16 (14.3%; 95% CI: 7.8–20.8) of the 112 hunting grounds tested and in all the hunting seasons sampled. A generalized estimating equations model showed that the geographical area (western Andalusia) and presence of sheep were risk factors potentially associated with C. burnetii exposure in wild lagomorphs. A statistically significant spatial cluster (p < 0.001) was identified in the south-west of Andalusia. Our results provide evidence of moderate, endemic and heterogeneous circulation of C. burnetii in wild lagomorph populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Risk-based strategies for integrative surveillance programs should be implemented in these species to reduce the risk of transmission of the bacterium to sympatric species, including humans.

Simple Summary: In rabbits, milk is the primary source of nutrition from early growth to weaning. The ability of the mother rabbit to produce milk, which is also influenced by the maternal genotype, is particularly important in the case of the larger litters. The hormone prolactin is responsible for the initiation and maintenance of lactation and for the synthesis of the major components of milk. Prolactin acts through membrane receptors in target tissues. Point mutations and microsatellites in receptor genes can affect production characteristics. Our aim was to examine the prolactin receptor gene in a wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) population with a diverse genetic background. Our hypothesis was that the detected polymorphisms could be associated with milk production. By sequencing the promoter region of the PRLR gene, we detected four point mutations and one microsatellite. Among the genotypes of point mutations in the regulatory region of the PRLR gene, the homozygous genotype and the short repeat of the microsatellite resulted in higher milk production. These could be potential marker candidates for the development of marker-assisted selection. One of the problematic points of rabbit breeding is that the nutritional requirements of the kits are not fully satisfied by the does' milk production from the third week of lactation onwards. The prolactin receptor gene has a significant effect on reproductive processes, and its polymorphisms have been associated with milk production in several species (cattle, goats, sheep, and buffalo). The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), has a more diverse genetic background compared to domesticated lines. In the course of our study, sequencing of the 1210 bp long segment of the PRLR gene promoter region was accomplished. We detected four point mutations (SNP1-407G > A, SNP2-496G > C, SNP3-926T> and SNP4-973A > C) and one microsatellite at position 574. In our population, the four SNPs were segregated into four genotypes: AACCCCCC, GGGGTTAA, AAGGTTAC, and GGGGTCAC. Our results show that the genotype in the homozygous form is associated with higher milk production (1564.7 ± 444.7 g) compared to the other three genotypes (AACCCCCC 1399.1 ± 326.8 g; GTGACCTT 1403.8 ± 517.1 g; GGGGTCAC 1220.0 ± 666.2 g), and the short microsatellite repeat (167 bp) also coincides with significantly higher milk production (1623.8 ± 525.1 g). These results make the marker-assisted selection possible also for domesticated lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Hepatitis E is an emerging zoonosis. In the European Union, human cases are mainly caused by foodborne infections linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked food containing liver from pigs or wild boars infected by the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Some animal species are suspected to be a reservoir of zoonotic HEV genotypes 3 and 4. Among the HEV-3 genotype, viral strains infecting rabbits (HEV-3ra) are strictly related to the zoonotic genotype detected in pigs and humans. However, the transmission of rabbit HEV to humans is still debatable. To better evaluate the risk of transmission of rabbit HEV to humans, it is important to assess its prevalence in lagomorph populations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of HEV in 328 Italian hares and 59 farmed rabbits collected in 3 Italian macro-areas (North, North-Central, and South-Central) between 2019 and 2021. For this purpose, liver samples were tested to detect HEV RNA using broad-range PCR, which was able to detect both HEV-3 and HEV-3ra. Neither HEV RNA nor anti-HEV antibodies were detected. The circulation of HEV-3ra in Italy may be limited to some geographical regions, as confirmed by its absence in our study and by the lack of human cases reported so far. The zoonotic hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) causes most autochthonous human hepatitis E cases in Europe, which are due to the consumption of raw or undercooked food products of animal origin. Pigs and wild boars are considered the main reservoirs of this genotype, while rabbits are the reservoir of a distinct phylogenetic group named HEV-3ra, which is classified within the HEV-3 genotype but in a separate clade. Evidence for the zoonotic potential of HEV-3ra was suggested by its detection in immunocompromised patients in several European countries. HEV-3ra infection was found in farmed and feral rabbit populations worldwide and its circulation was reported in a few European countries, including Italy. Furthermore, Italy is one of the major rabbit meat producers and consumers across Europe, but only a few studies investigated the presence of HEV in this reservoir. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of HEV in 328 Italian hares and 59 farmed rabbits collected in 3 Italian macro-areas (North, North-Central, and South-Central), between 2019 and 2021. For this purpose, liver samples were used to detect HEV RNA using broad-range real-time RT-PCR and nested RT-PCR. Using 28 liver transudates from hares, the ELISA test for anti-HEV IgG detection was also performed. Neither HEV RNA nor anti-HEV antibodies were detected. Further studies will be conducted to assess the HEV presence in Italian lagomorphs to establish the role of this host and the possible risk of transmission for workers with occupational exposure, to pet owners and via food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A long‐term active epidemiological surveillance programme was conducted to determine seroprevalence to myxoma virus (MYXV), infection prevalence and spatiotemporal patterns and factors associated with MYXV circulation in wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. A total of 2376 animals were sampled over four study periods: 2009–2012 (P1), 2012–2015 (P2), 2015–2018 (P3) and 2018–2021 (P4). Antibodies against MYXV were detected by a commercial indirect ELISA in 59.9% (1424/2376; 95% CI: 58.0–61.9) of wild rabbits. At least one seropositive animal was detected on 131 (96.3%) of 136 game estates sampled. MYXV infection was confirmed by PCR in 94 of 1063 (8.8%; 95% CI: 7.3–10.7) wild rabbits. Circulation of the novel recombinant MYXV (ha‐MYXV) was not found in wild rabbits analysed during P4. Five statistically significant spatiotemporal clusters of high MYXV seroprevalence were identified using a Bernoulli model: one in P2 and four in P3. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) analysis identified sampling season (autumn), age (adult and juvenile), outbreaks of myxomatosis in the month prior to sampling, mean annual temperature, humidity and seropositivity to rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus as factors potentially linked with MYXV seropositivity. GLMM analysis identified outbreaks of myxomatosis in the month prior to sampling, MYXV seropositivity and presence of lesions compatible with myxomatosis as factors associated with MYXV infection. The results indicate high exposure, widespread but non‐homogeneous distribution, and endemic circulation of MYXV in wild rabbit populations in southern Spain during the last decade. Prevalence of antibodies against MYXV showed fluctuations both within the year and over the study periods, revealing variations in the immunity of wild rabbit populations in Mediterranean ecosystems that could increase the risk of MYXV re‐emergence in immunologically naïve populations. The present study highlights the importance of long‐term surveillance to better understand the epidemiology of MYXV in wild lagomorphs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey study was carried out to identify tick species parasitizing wild lagomorphs in Mediterranean ecosystems in southern Spain and to determine the occurrence of Rickettsia species present in these ticks in this region. A total of 1304 European wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and 58 Iberian hares (Lepus granatensis) were individually examined for the presence of ticks. Ticks were found in 42.9% and 50% of the wild rabbits and hares sampled, respectively. A total of 1122 ticks were collected and five species, including Rhipicephalus pusillus, Hyalomma lusitanicum, Haemaphysalis hispanica, Ixodes ventalloi and Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (s.l.), were microscopically and molecularly identified at the 16S rRNA gene. This is the first study on Ixodidae parasitizing Iberian hares. The presence of Rickettsia DNA was assessed in 254 tick pools (according to hunting states, lagomorph species, tick species and tick development stage) using PCR assays targeting the rOmpA, rOmpB and gltA. Twenty‐seven pools (10.6%) were positive to Rickettsia DNA. Five zoonotic Rickettsia species were identified, being Rickettsia massiliae the most frequent (4.7%), followed by Rickettsia sibirica subsp. mongolitimonae (2.8%), Rickettsia slovaca (2.0%), Rickettsia aeschlimannii (0.8%) and Rickettsia africae (0.4%). The results suggest that wild rabbits and Iberian hares are parasitized by a wide range of tick species and that these lagomorphs may play an important role in the sylvatic cycle of some zoonotic Rickettsia species in Mediterranean ecosystems. Our data represent the first report of R. massiliae, R. aeschlimannii, R. slovaca and R africae in ticks collected in wild lagomorphs in Europe, and the first report of not imported R. africae in this continent. Since R. slovaca and R. africae DNA was detected in tick species different to their main vectors, further studies are warranted to unravel the role of wild lagomorphs in the epidemiology of these vector‐borne pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the genus Bartonella are Gram-negative facultative intracellular bacteria that are transmitted by arthropod vectors. Bartonella alsatica was detected in the spleens and livers of 7 out of 56 wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and in the liver of 1 out of 87 domestic rabbits in the Netherlands. The molecular evidence of B. alsatica infection in wild as well as domestic rabbits indicates the possibility of exposure to humans when these come in close contact with rabbits and possibly their fleas with subsequent risk of Bartonella infection and disease.

Wild lagomorphs play a key epidemiological role as reservoirs of Leishmania infantum , causative agent of the largest outbreak of human leishmaniosis in Europe to date. A large-scale survey study was conducted on wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems to evaluate the exposure of L. infantum and investigate potential risk factors associated with exposure to this zoonotic parasite. Between 2018 and 2021, a total of 631 wild lagomorphs (471 wild rabbits and 160 Iberian hares) were collected in Andalusia (southern Spain) and tested for antibodies against L. infantum using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Spleen samples from 563 of the wild lagomorphs sampled (441 wild rabbits and 122 Iberian hares) were also evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for detection of Leishmania kDNA. Exposure to L. infantum (positive by IFAT and/or qPCR) was detected in 56.4 % (356/631; 95 %CI: 52.3–60.3) of the lagomorphs analyzed. Anti- Leishmania antibodies were found in 12.8 % (81/631; 95 %CI: 10.2–15.5) of the animals, and L. infantum kDNA was detected in 59.0 % (332/563; 95 %CI: 54.9–63.0) of the spleen samples tested. Phylogenetic analysis revealed high homology (99.9–100 %) between L. infantum sequences obtained and strains previously isolated from humans in Spain. While apparent seroprevalence was significantly higher in Iberian hares (19.4 %; 95 %CI: 13.3–25.5) compared to wild rabbits (10.6 %; 95 %CI: 7.9–13.4), no significant differences in prevalence were found between wild rabbits (61.0 %; 95 %CI: 56.5–65.6) and Iberian hares (51.6 %; 95 %CI: 42.8–60.5). At least one positive animal was found on 64.8 % (70/108) of the hunting grounds sampled, and a high-risk spatial cluster (P < 0.001) was also identified in central Andalusia. The multivariable analysis identified bioclimatic level (meso-Mediterranean climate) and the presence of goats on hunting grounds as risk factors potentially associated with L. infantum exposure in wild lagomorphs. This study shows high, widespread exposure, but heterogeneous distribution of L. infantum in wild lagomorph populations in Mediterranean ecosystems in southern Spain. The results point to the need to promote integrated surveillance programs for the detection of Leishmania spp. in wild lagomorphs in order to establish effective control measures against human leishmaniosis under a One Health approach. • Largest study evaluating L. infantum exposure in wild lagomorphs. • L. infantum exposure was detected in 56.4 % of wild lagomorphs tested. • L. infantum sequences have strong homology with human isolates. • Bioclimate and presence of goats were risk factors associated with L. infantum exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The case of European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) embodies the conservation paradox of the twenty-first century, as it is on the rise in introduced places and populations are in decline in its endemic locations. Recently, wild rabbits have been considered endangered in Mediterranean European countries, and European wild rabbit has been defined as a keystone species. The loss of keystone species is critical to ecosystem structure and functioning, and their reintroduction constitutes a critical point in the ecological restoration of degraded ecosystems. Some studies have related the influence of high food quality to wild rabbit density, demonstrating in some areas that an increase in food availability (protein) is a good management technique. In this work, we review the effects of ecosystem management (using native plants and applying protein as a limiting factor) as a tool to increase the density of this keystone species and, in turn, the resilience of the Mediterranean ecosystem. Knowledge of the nutritional requirements and evaluation of the plants that conform rabbit diet are necessary. We summarise the ecosystem management and protein requirements of the animals. In addition, we compile the nutritional assessments of the main plants that make up the wild rabbit's diet, aiming to detect the best candidate plants. In conclusion, we propose the following species for further study and consideration in future conservation programmes: Malva hispanica, Cistus ladanifer, Dactylis glomerata, Cynosurus echinatus, Trifolium subterraneum and Lupinus spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the problematic points of rabbit breeding is that the nutritional requirements of the kits are not fully satisfied by the does’ milk production from the third week of lactation onwards. The prolactin receptor gene has a significant effect on reproductive processes, and its polymorphisms have been associated with milk production in several species (cattle, goats, sheep, and buffalo). The European wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus), has a more diverse genetic background compared to domesticated lines. In the course of our study, sequencing of the 1210 bp long segment of the PRLR gene promoter region was accomplished. We detected four point mutations (SNP1-407G > A, SNP2-496G > C, SNP3-926T> and SNP4-973A > C) and one microsatellite at position 574. In our population, the four SNPs were segregated into four genotypes: AACCCCCC, GGGGTTAA, AAGGTTAC, and GGGGTCAC. Our results show that the genotype in the homozygous form is associated with higher milk production (1564.7 ± 444.7 g) compared to the other three genotypes (AACCCCCC 1399.1 ± 326.8 g; GTGACCTT 1403.8 ± 517.1 g; GGGGTCAC 1220.0 ± 666.2 g), and the short microsatellite repeat (167 bp) also coincides with significantly higher milk production (1623.8 ± 525.1 g). These results make the marker-assisted selection possible also for domesticated lines.

The zoonotic hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) causes most autochthonous human hepatitis E cases in Europe, which are due to the consumption of raw or undercooked food products of animal origin. Pigs and wild boars are considered the main reservoirs of this genotype, while rabbits are the reservoir of a distinct phylogenetic group named HEV-3ra, which is classified within the HEV-3 genotype but in a separate clade. Evidence for the zoonotic potential of HEV-3ra was suggested by its detection in immunocompromised patients in several European countries. HEV-3ra infection was found in farmed and feral rabbit populations worldwide and its circulation was reported in a few European countries, including Italy. Furthermore, Italy is one of the major rabbit meat producers and consumers across Europe, but only a few studies investigated the presence of HEV in this reservoir. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of HEV in 328 Italian hares and 59 farmed rabbits collected in 3 Italian macro-areas (North, North-Central, and South-Central), between 2019 and 2021. For this purpose, liver samples were used to detect HEV RNA using broad-range real-time RT-PCR and nested RT-PCR. Using 28 liver transudates from hares, the ELISA test for anti-HEV IgG detection was also performed. Neither HEV RNA nor anti-HEV antibodies were detected. Further studies will be conducted to assess the HEV presence in Italian lagomorphs to establish the role of this host and the possible risk of transmission for workers with occupational exposure, to pet owners and via food.

Wildlife management and conservation requires monitoring of species distribution and population indicators, especially when the unbalanced demographic changes of some species can affect the whole ecosystem functioning. The populations of wild boar (Sus scrofa) have, over the past few decades, undergone an expansion around the world, reaching situations of overabundance that can cause serious economic, ecological and health problems. This numerical increase of wild boar and its new spatial invasion can affect certain vulnerable species in sensitive ecological zones, such as the main inland wetland complex in SW Europe.In this context, we aim to (i) examine the association of wild boar abundance and that of lagomorphs, and waterbird productivity, controlling the possible effects of wild carnivores and other environmental predictors, and (ii) applying a survey method useful for managers to evaluate expected effect of wild boar abundance.Overall, the presence of wild boar has been detected in 80.8% of the monitored wetlands (n = 26), but a high variation of abundance rates was found. Wild boar abundance negatively associated with the productivity of the entire community of waterbirds, a priori highly vulnerable, breeding on shores or islands, both colonially (genus Gelochelidon, Himantopus, Recurvirostra, Sternula, Glareola, Tringa and Phoenicopterus) or solitary (genus Anas, Spatula, Mareca, Charadrius, Vanellus, Anser, Ardea, Aythya, Fulica, Netta, Oxyura and Tadorna).In addition, we evidenced a clear negative association of wild boar and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) population abundance in the monitored wetlands. Rabbits are a keystone species in the study area and represent stable prey for many endangered predators.Our results suggest that potential impacts caused by high wild boar abundance may be already reaching unsustainable levels for some wetlands. Inter-species integrated monitoring is key to address the population management plans of wild boar populations in wetlands and to preserve the most vulnerable species.

Members of the genus Bartonella are Gram-negative facultative intracellular bacteria that are transmitted by arthropod vectors. Bartonella alsatica was detected in the spleens and livers of 7 out of 56 wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and in the liver of 1 out of 87 domestic rabbits in the Netherlands. The molecular evidence of B. alsatica infection in wild as well as domestic rabbits indicates the possibility of exposure to humans when these come in close contact with rabbits and possibly their fleas with subsequent risk of Bartonella infection and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to assess that potential health risk from Cd, Cu, and Pb, through the consumption of hunted red-legged partridge and wild rabbit meat, with special focus on the population of hunters and their relatives. Mineral content was analyzed by atomic absorption methods (F-AAS for Cu and GF-AAS for Cd and Pb) after microwave digestion of lyophilized samples. The average concentrations of these elements were 0.008 and 0.01 mg/kg for Cd; 1.41 and 1.63 mg/kg for Cu and 0.98 and 1.28 mg/kg for Pb in wild rabbit and red-legged partridge meat respectively. The dietary, risk assessment was performed by assuming two intake scenarios based on the obtained results of the survey on game meat consumption and the current maximum recommended intakes of Cd, Cu, and Pb, and then, the hazard quotients (THQ and TTHQ) were calculated. The data show that exposure to these metals from eating red-legged partridge and wild rabbit meat from a hunting provenance is relatively low and generally greater in the hunter population. The risk assessment revealed that moderate or low consumption of meat of these species does not offer a significant public health risk. Moreover, hazard quotients values for these metals of red-legged partridge and rabbit meat consumption in hunters and nonhunters are below 1. However, a high Pb content in the meat of these species and a high consumption may pose a greater health risk to hunters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decades, the European wild rabbit, particularly the Oryctolagus cuniculus algirus, a keystone species in the Iberian Peninsula ecosystems, declined severely, raising concerns from the wildlife authorities. The hunting calendar in Portugal limits sampling collection to a narrow window of few months annually. Nevertheless, governmental wildlife protection laws allow live rabbit sampling for population and sanitary evaluations. The aim of this study is to adjust blood collection protocols from the external jugular vein (EJV) described for domestic rabbits to the wild rabbit. Collection of peripheral blood is problematic in the wild rabbit given its small body size and the reduced calibre of vessels but mostly its nervous disposition and fragility. We describe in detail a procedure for EJV blood collection in 30 wild rabbits after sedation with midazolam. Emphasis is given to protocol adjustments for wild rabbit. Heart rate, respiratory rate and body temperature were assessed before sedation, after sedation but before collection and after blood collection. Sedation onset took on mean (SD) 8 ± 2 min. The technique allowed the collection at least 1 ml of blood, a satisfactory volume for routine laboratory testing. The differences observed in heart and respiratory rates before and after blood collection were not statistically significant, indicating that no cardiorespiratory interference occurred due to venepuncture. Recovery from sedation took on mean (SD) 17 ± 2 min. All animals were set free during the first hour after blood collection. This work aims to demonstrate that blood collection under sedation is a safe and feasible procedure in wild rabbits when practiced by experienced veterinarians. At no time, whatsoever, was the physiological homeostasis at risk and no injuries were inflicted on the animals. To our knowledge this report constitutes the first guided description of blood collection from the EJV in sedated O. c. algirus and the first collection of physiological parameters measured under different conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence and diversity of Staphylococcus species from wild European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in the Azores were investigated, and the antibiotic resistance phenotype and genotype of the isolates were determined. Nasal samples from 77 wild European rabbits from São Jorge and São Miguel islands in Azores were examined. Antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method, and the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes and virulence factors was determined by PCR. The genetic lineages of S. aureus isolates were characterized by spa typing and multilocus sequence typing. A total of 49 staphylococci were obtained from 35 of the 77 wild rabbits. Both coagulase-positive (8.2%) and coagulase-negative (91.8%) staphylococci were detected: 4 S. aureus, 17 S. fleurettii, 13 S. sciuri, 7 S. xylosus, 4 S. epidermidis, and 1 each of S. simulans, S. saprophyticus, S. succinus, and S. equorum. The four S. aureus isolates showed methicillin susceptibility and were characterized as spa type t272/CC121, Panton-Valentine leukocidin negative, and hlB positive. Most of the coagulase-negative staphylococci showed resistance to fusidic acid and beta-lactams, and multidrug resistance was identified especially among S. epidermidis isolates. The mecA gene was detected in 20 isolates of the species S. fleurettii and S. epidermidis, associated with the blaZ gene in one S. epidermidis isolate. Five antimicrobial resistance genes were detected in one S. epidermidis isolate (mecA,dfrA,dfrG,aac6′-aph2′′, and ant4). Our results highlight that wild rabbits are reservoirs or "temporary hosts" of Staphylococcus species with zoonotic potential, some of them carrying relevant antimicrobial resistances. Staphylococci are frequently detected in nasal samples of wild rabbits. Main Staphylococcus spp. (of 9 detected): fleurettii, sciuri, xylosus, epidermidis, and aureus. All S. aureus were MSSA and typed as t272/CC121. The mecA gene was detected in 44% of CoNS; all were of S. epidermidis or S. fleurettii species. Fusidic acid resistance is detected in most of CoNS, and multidrug resistance in S. epidermidis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Q fever is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Coxiella burnetii that have cases reported in humans and animals almost everywhere. The aim of this study was to describe the seasonality of Coxiella burnetii in the wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and the tick Hyalomma lusitanicum in a meso-Mediterranean ecosystem. (2) Methods: two populations of wild rabbits that differ in whether or not they share habitat with ungulates, mainly red deer (Cervus elaphus) were sampled for a year to collect ticks, blood and vaginal or anal swabs. Presence of C. burnetii DNA in swabs and the tick H. lusitanicum was determined by PCR and serum antibodies by ELISA. (3) Results: C. burnetii DNA was detected in 47.2% of 583 rabbits, in 65.5% of sera, and in more than half of the H. lusitanicum. There were small variations according to sex and age of the rabbits but significant according to the habitat (4) Conclusions: The results indicate that C. burnetii circulates freely between wild rabbits and H. lusitanicum and the sylvatic cycle in meso-Mediterranean environments relies in the presence of wild rabbits and H. lusitanicum above all if sharing habitat with red deer.

Abstract Background In the regular wildlife monitoring action carried out in the summer of the past few years at the Berlenga Island, wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) have been repeatedly found dead. However, the origin of those deaths was never investigated. Our aim was to investigate the cause of death of 11 rabbits collected between April and May 2016. Results While screening samples from rabbit carcasses for the major viral rabbit pathogens, five tested positive to RHDV2 but all were negative for RHDV and myxoma virus (MYXV). For six RHDV2-negative specimens, emaciation and parasitism were considered the most probable cause of death. Lesions identified in the RHDV2-positive rabbits included non-suppurative diffuse hepatic necrosis and pulmonary lesions varying from congestion and oedema of the lungs to interstitial pneumonia. Sequencing analysis of the vp60 gene obtained from two specimens showed identical vp60 sequences. Comparison with other known RHDV2 strains from public databases through BLAST analysis revealed a closer similarity with strains from Alentejo collected during 2013. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis showed that the 2016 strains from the archipelago have a higher resemblance with a group of strains mostly collected in the South of Portugal between 2013 and 2014. Conclusion The results suggest that RHDV2 may have been introduced on the Berlenga Island a few years ago, having evolved separately from mainland strains due to insularity.

The spread of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in wildlife must be viewed as a major concern with serious implications for human and animal health. Escherichia coli and enterococcal isolates were recovered from faecal samples of 49 wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) on specific media and were characterised using biochemical and molecular tests. For all isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed, and resistance genes were detected by PCR. Molecular typing of isolates was carried out by pulsed-field gel-electrophoresis, and E. coli strains were also tested for the presence of intimin (eae) gene characteristic of rabbit enteropathogenic E. coli. A total of 34 E. coli and 36 enterococci [E. hirae (52.8%) and E. faecalis (47.2%)] were obtained. For E. coli, resistance to tetracycline (94%), streptomycin (62%), ciprofloxacin (47%), trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole (35%) and chloramphenicol (6%) was observed. Resistance to third-generation cephalosporins was detected in one E. coli strain that carried the blaCMY-2 and blaTEM-1 genes. Class 1 integrons were detected in eight isolates. For enterococci, resistance to tetracycline (63.9%), erythromycin (30.5%), streptomycin (18.2%), and chloramphenicol (5.5%) was detected. The tet(M)+tet(L), erm(B) and ant (6)-Ia genes were identified in thirteen, seven and three resistant Enterococcus strains, respectively. Molecular typing showed a high diversity among our strains. Wild rabbits could represent a reservoir of E. coli, and enterococci carrying antimicrobial resistance genes and E. coli additionally carrying the eae gene of enteropathogenic pathotypes could both contaminate the environment. our finding seems to represent the first report of eae-positive E. coli in wild rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the results of a work carried out on six biological models: that of a Garenne Rabbit Oryctolagiis funiculus (Mammalia, Liporidae), a Mongoose Egyptian Herpeste ichneumon (Mammalia, Herpestidae) in the region of the Greater Kabylie (Algeria) in 2015 during the spring period (March and April), the common jackal Canis aureus (Mammalia, Canidae) in Tikjda during the autumn season (November and December) of the same year, Rat Rattus norvegicus (Mammalia, Muridae) and the Partridge gambra Alectoris barbara (Aves, Phasianidae) in 2016 during the winter (February and March) in the Kolea region (Tipaza), as well as on a wild boar Sus scrofa (Mammalia, Suidae) in summer 2016 (July and August) around the Djurdjura National Park (Bouira). Only one trapping technique was used in this study. The Barber pots were placed around these six corpses. In the Egyptian mongoose, we captured 500 beetles and 435 coleopterans in the wild rabbit. The Carabidae family are dominant with 27.40% in the Mongoose of Egypt and the Dermestidae family with 22.07% in the Garenne Rabbit. The common jackal with 190 Coleoptera whose Staphylinidae family dominates with 51.58% (98 individuals). 995 Coleoptera identified in the wild boar of which the family Staphylinidae is best represented with 38.39% (382 individuals). Regarding the laboratory rat, we identified 161 Coleoptera and 119 Coleoptera in the Alectoris Barbara. The Staphylinidae family dominates for the two, with 39.13% (63 individuals) and 53.78% (64 individuals) respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Obeliscoides cuniculi is a common parasite in American lagomorphs, while it has never been reported in the European rabbit. The exotic parasite has been introduced in Italy by the eastern cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus), an invasive alien lagomorph introduced to Europe for hunting purpose. Considering that S. floridanus shares the same areas with the European rabbit, the aim of this work is to document the first report of this parasite in an autochtonous lagomorph. Methods: O.cuniculi, isolated from one adult European rabbit found dead, was identified considering the morphological features and reproductive organs of the adult stage (length and thickness of the body, spicules structure and size). Results: The present study represents the first record of the gastric nematode O. cuniculi (Trichostrongilidae) in a population of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Italy. Conclusion: Since Graphidium strigosum is the most common parasite infecting the European rabbit stomach, this study considers and discusses different scenarios about helminth co-infection effect. Further studies should be carried out to understand the long-term effect of this introduction on wild rabbit population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about the endemic Iberian wild rabbit subspecies, Oryctolagus cuniculus algirus, despite its importance in Mediterranean ecosystems. An individual’s physical condition is of undisputed importance when evaluating the quality of habitats or restocking enclosures to assess the corresponding population status. We analysed post-weaning body weight and growth of 351 individuals of the endemic Oryctolagus cuniculus algirus subspecies under semi-natural conditions in a breeding enclosure in central Portugal. From these data, we described and estimated growth rates for juvenile and adult stages, and 3 sigmoidal growth models were developed. Body weight showed a linear growth of 0.00765 kg/d until 0.6 kg, whereafter it began to decrease steeply until 1 kg (

The aim of this research is to characterise the wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) commercial game farms in Spain using variables related to structure, management and marketing. To this end, a structured survey was administered in 2009 to 21 privately-owned farms. This subsector was an average age of 13. The average size of the breeding stock of the farms was 431 does and 64 bucks. Eighty-five percent of the farms kept all or part of the breeding stock in cages and 38.1% used artificial insemination. All the farms carried out breeder self-replacement, 4.8% by buying wild rabbits from other farms, whereas 38.1% captured wild rabbits for this purpose. Nineteen percent of the wild rabbit game farms also produced other game species, mainly red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa), pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) and quail (Coturnix coturnix). Fourteen percent of the farms supplied wild rabbits to be used as prey to be released in programmes for the conservation of endangered predators, and 38.1% supplied breeding rabbits to be used by other farms to replace culled animals. Eighty-six percent of the farms offered the service of transporting the animals from the farm to the hunting grounds to their clients, and 14.3% advised customers on how to successfully release and restock hunting grounds. Seventy-six percent of the farms marketed their products throughout Spain, and 38.1% exported wild rabbits to neighbouring countries, mainly Portugal and France. Forty-three percent of the farms advertised themselves in hunting magazines, 19.1% promoted themselves by attending livestock and game fairs, and 38.1% had their own websites. In conclusion, this alternative rabbit production system constitutes a well-established subsector in Spain, despite being only 2 decades old. It also seems that it has not yet reached its development maturity. It shows wide diversity in terms of farm size and structure, as well as marketing and promotional activities.

The fatty acid (FA) profile of the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle (LL) was used to investigate seasonal variation (September, November and March) in wild rabbits from Lemnos Island (Greece). The n -3 FA were particularly high during early March in comparison ( P < 0.05) with late September and late November. Thrombogenicity index (TI) values were lower in March ( P < 0.05) compared to the other periods. High concentrations of odd- and branched-chain FA were found in the meat of wild rabbits; however, they were not different among the considered periods of the year. The present results showed that wild rabbit meat has a desirable FA profile, particularly during early spring, and it could be a good source of bioactive FA in human nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, a change of hepatitis E from being a typical travel-associated disease to an autochthonous zoonosis in Germany was observed. An increasing number of autochthonous infections with the hepatitis E Virus ( HEV) have been recognized in developed countries. Venison from wild boar is already known to be a potential source of infection, if not prepared properly by the consumer. In Germany, certain wild animals are known to be a reservoir for HEV. However, current information is missing about European brown hares ( Lepus europaeus) and wild rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus). Thus, a total of 833 hunting-harvested animals (European brown hares n = 669; wild rabbits n = 164) were tested for the occurrence of HEV RNA and HEV antibodies. For this, liver and blood specimens were taken after hunts in six German federal states. HEV antibodies were found by ELISA in 2.2% (624/14) of European brown hares, but no HEV RNA was detectable by nested real-time RT- PCR. In contrast, a seroprevalence of 37.3% (126/47) was observed for wild rabbits, and 17.1% (164/28) of the samples were HEV RNA positive. Genomic analysis revealed that these partial sequences clustered within the rabbit clade of HEV-3 genotype. In addition, one rabbit sequence segregated into subtype 3g of HEV-3. Highest seroprevalences for hares and rabbits were detected in the federal states of Bavaria and of Schleswig-Holstein, respectively. Comparing urban, rural and insular areas, the highest seroprevalence was shown for wild rabbits in rural areas and for European brown hares on the northern island Fehmarn. This study provides evidence that European brown hares and wild rabbits from Germany can be infected with HEV. The different prevalences indicate that wild rabbits are a potential reservoir for HEV in Germany, whereas European brown hares seem to be only of minor importance for the epidemiology of HEV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the regular wildlife monitoring action carried out in the summer of the past few years at the Berlenga Island, wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) have been repeatedly found dead. However, the origin of those deaths was never investigated. Our aim was to investigate the cause of death of 11 rabbits collected between April and May 2016. Results: While screening samples from rabbit carcasses for the major viral rabbit pathogens, five tested positive to RHDV2 but all were negative for RHDV and myxoma virus (MYXV). For six RHDV2-negative specimens, emaciation and parasitism were considered the most probable cause of death. Lesions identified in the RHDV2-positive rabbits included non-suppurative diffuse hepatic necrosis and pulmonary lesions varying from congestion and oedema of the lungs to interstitial pneumonia. Sequencing analysis of the vp60 gene obtained from two specimens showed identical vp60 sequences. Comparison with other known RHDV2 strains from public databases through BLAST analysis revealed a closer similarity with strains from Alentejo collected during 2013. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis showed that the 2016 strains from the archipelago have a higher resemblance with a group of strains mostly collected in the South of Portugal between 2013 and 2014. Conclusion: The results suggest that RHDV2 may have been introduced on the Berlenga Island a few years ago, having evolved separately from mainland strains due to insularity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii causes serious infection worldwide in humans and animals. In this study, the seroepidemiology of toxoplasmosis was investigated in wild boars (Sus scrofa) (n=377), wild rabbits (cape hare, Lapus capensis) (n=331), and wild chickens (red junglefwol, Gallus gallus) (n=571) in 4 forested and country sided area of Hubei province of China. For this, blood samples were collected and tested by indirect hemagglutination test (IHA). The seroprevalence was found to be 7.2%, 5.1%, and 12.6% in wild boars, rabbits, and chickens, respectively, with significant differences among these species. The prevalence of T. gondii infection in male and female wild boars was found to be 7.9% and 6.5% (P<0.01), in male and female rabbits was 5.6% and 4.9% (P<0.01), and in male and female chickens was 17.1% and 7.7% (P<0.01), respectively, with significant differences between 2 genders of chickens (P<0.01). The findings of this study may help in planning of the prevention measures against T. gondii infection in wild animals in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The declining rabbit population in the Iberian Peninsula has led hunters and authorities to rear rabbits in captivity systems for their subsequent release. One alternative method to intensive rabbitry systems is the use of extensive breeding enclosures, since they produce animals of greater quality for hunting and conservation purposes. However, some of the factors that affect rabbit production in breeding enclosures are still unknown. The present study used partial least squares regression (PLSR) to analyse the effects of plot size, scrub cover, slope, initial rabbit abundance, the resources needed to dig warrens, predation and proximity to other enclosures on rabbit abundance. The results of our study show a positive effect of the number of other fenced plots within a radius of 3 km, a positive relationship with the availability of optimal resources for building warrens and a positive influence of intermediate values of scrub cover. According to our results, to maximise rabbit production in the enclosures it would be advisable to concentrate the restocking effort by ensuring that the restocking plots are close to each other, thus avoiding isolated enclosures. Furthermore, the selection of plots with an appropriate scrub cover and high availability of elements that favour the construction of warrens, such as large stones, sloping land or tall shrubs, may optimise results.