Visual communication for rabbits

Visual cues are not the main communication system for rabbits. This is not a surprise, as we know that rabbits spend most of their time in the dark. So how do rabbits communicate? There are variations that we can look for to find out how rabbits feel. Variations can be different ear locations showing submission, fear, aggressive intent, satisfaction, and relaxation.

Typically, when a rabbit is feeling relaxed, it will lie on its side or stomach with its hind legs stretched back. Either that, or she squats with her legs tucked underneath and eats bent against her head. These are very obvious signs that your rabbit is feeling relaxed at the moment.

When a rabbit feels submissive, it usually crouches down. This will make it look smaller and less threatening. Generally in the animal world, making the body appear smaller means that it is submissive. Often this happens without eye contact with the dominant animal. This sign is more obvious and is clearly seen in dogs that raise their bodies, lower their heads, and look away from the more dominant dog or person.

Whenever a rabbit is afraid of something or is afraid, it shows a posture very similar to that of a submissive animal. However, the main difference is that when rabbits are scared, their facial muscles tighten. This gives you a look at the rabbit’s face that his eyes are about to pop out of his head. The body will be pressed against the ground and the ears will flatten firmly against your head. When a rabbit adopts this posture, try to appear as discreet as possible without losing sight of the source of its fear.

Rabbits shake their heads to show irritation or disgust at the strange introduction to smell or taste, for example. This action is sometimes followed by one of the most familiar visual communications we know of. They slap their hind legs dramatically against the ground. It is a visual and auditory signal of potential danger. A rabbit that is genuinely concerned about such a possibility of danger will retreat at high speed towards its burrow. It also raises its hindquarters while running, thus showing the white underside of its tail. This white colored coat is visible to other rabbits even in low light. This signal is a strong indication for all other rabbits to seek shelter and safety in the burrow immediately.

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