28 THE RABBIT 



and received a charge of No. 6 shot before it reached 

 the ground ! 



Rabbits are unquestionably the kind of stock to 

 make the finest turf ; they bite closer than any other 

 animal that grazes, and the best turf for gardens is that 

 taken from warrens, or from downs on which rabbits 

 abound. Sandy commons, covered with furze, are a 

 favourite resort of rabbits, and on such ground they 

 often increase rapidly in numbers. The soil being 

 light and friable is easily excavated, and the furze 

 affords, not only a secure retreat, but a never-failing 

 supply of food in the young tops of the plants, which 

 are sufficiently tender before the spines have become 

 matured. 



In the choice of food rabbits do not appear to be 

 very particular. They will eat almost anything that 

 is green. Indeed, so destructive are they to most 

 plants and young growing trees, that it is a matter 

 of importance to game preservers, who want under- 

 wood in the coverts as shelter for pheasants, to 

 ascertain what shrubs are ' rabbit proof.' Common 

 rhododendron, though not absolutely 'rabbit proof,' 

 is not so liable to be attacked as many other shrubs. 

 It will grow in shady places better than any other 

 evergreen, especially if the soil is sandy and moist. 

 But, although as a rule rabbits will not injure 



