[Preliminary studies of the effect of diseases and environmental pollution on the population dynamics of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus Linnaeus, 1758) in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany)].
A survey was conducted of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) shot in all districts of the Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany). A total of 104 rabbits were examined during 1988 and 1989. Attempts to isolate myxoma virus and other viruses were unsuccessful. Two serum samples neutralised myxoma virus. In 1990, 210 rabbits were examined; 57 animals were subjected to tests for the presence of the virus of viral haemorrhagic disease of rabbits and 42 were tested for specific antibody. No virus was isolated. Antibody titres were judged to be significant in 5% of the rabbits tested. Bacteriological, histological and virological tests showed no evidence of ill health in these animals. With the exception of abnormal cadmium content of tissues, detailed examination of ovaries and testes and lead assays failed to reveal reduced fertility as a reason for the fall in population.
Forschungsstelle für Jagdkunde und Wildschadenverhütung des Landes Nordrhein-Westfalen, Forsthaus Hardt, Bonn, République fédérale d'Allemagne.
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D000818:Animals; D000835:Animals, Wild; D002104:Cadmium / Q000032:analysis; D017250:Caliciviridae Infections / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D004787:Environmental Pollution / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D005298:Fertility; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D009234:Myxomatosis, Infectious / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011157:Population Dynamics; D011817:Rabbits
D002104:Cadmium