Land-use changes as a critical factor for long-term wild rabbit conservation in the Iberian Peninsula

摘要: European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), a multifunctional keystone species in the Iberian Peninsula, have drastically declined over past decades. Rabbit decline has been frequently attributed to arrival of two viral diseases. However, was apparently ongoing before diseases, as consequence habitat loss and fragmentation. In this paper, effect on rabbit populations land-use changes during recent decades Andalusia (southern Spain) is analysed. Areas favourable for both at present 1960s are identified, environmental factors that determine these areas established. where favourability changed decades, main land use assessed identify possible explaining areas. currently determined by similar those 1960s; undergone geographic Andalusia. The percentages variables were positively associated with models (current 1960s) whole, decreased; hence environments suitable become impoverished. Conversely, models, increased municipalities, also increased. preservation rabbit-friendly habitats should be priority conservation key western Mediterranean.