Despite the importance of rearing wild lagomorphs in captivity for hunting and predator conservation
in Spain, little is known about this production sector. Taking official data into account, in this work the number
and distribution of farms in Spain and the possible number of animals produced were analysed during the
period 2005-2010. In 2010, 114 wild rabbit farms were widely distributed throughout the country (especially
Cataluña, Galicia, Andalucía and Castilla La Mancha regions), while 21 hare farms were registered, the
majority in Extremadura, Castilla La Mancha and Andalucía. A possible production figure of 225 000-265 000
rabbits and 1 034 hares was estimated in 2010. Game farms of wild lagomorphs are established in Spain
and placement would be related to a high demand for hunting and predator conservation in certain regions.
Although more research is needed, the number of animals produced would be an important part of the total
animals released to the wild.
