As part of a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM), Dr. Metin Petek from Bursa Uludağ University, Türkiye, visited the Vetsuisse Faculty at the University of Bern, Switzerland, under the supervision of Dr. Sabine Gebhardt. The aim of the STSM was to explore the expression of positive social behaviours in group-housed rabbit does after parturition and to assess their balance with aggression in a communal setting.
Housing rabbits in groups has gained increasing attention due to its potential welfare benefits, particularly in enhancing natural social interactions. However, managing group housing in commercial and research settings comes with challenges, including the risk of aggression. This STSM focused on identifying positive welfare indicators that could be used to assess rabbit behaviour in group-housed systems, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of rabbit welfare.
The study documented various behaviours, noting their type, location, and duration. A key observation was that rabbit does exhibited lower activity levels in the morning but showed an increased tendency to interact and move during the afternoon. These findings provide valuable insights into the daily behavioural rhythms of group-housed rabbits, which could inform future welfare assessments and housing management strategies. By understanding how rabbits interact positively in social settings, researchers and farmers can refine housing conditions to promote welfare while minimizing stress and aggression.
Beyond research, the STSM was an opportunity for academic exchange and professional growth. Metin expressed deep gratitude to Dr. Gebhardt and her team for their warm hospitality and the opportunity to engage with experts in rabbit welfare. A highlight of the visit was exploring Swiss organic farms, offering firsthand insights into sustainable and welfare-friendly farming practices.
This STSM not only expanded knowledge on positive welfare indicators in rabbits but also fostered international collaboration. The experience is expected to contribute to Metin’s future work in animal behaviour and welfare, strengthening ties between institutions and advancing the field of rabbit welfare assessment.
