5.1 How Populations Grow
5.2 Limits to Growth
5.3 Human Population Growth
A PLAGUE OF RABBITS
In 1859, an Australian farmer released 24 wild European rabbits from England on his ranch. “A few rabbits” he said, “could do little harm and might provide a touch of home, in addition to a spot of hunting.”
Seven years later, he and his friends shot 14,253 rabbits. In ten years, more than 2 million rabbits were hunted on that farm alone! But hunters' glee turned into nationwide despair. That “touch of home” was soon covering the countryside like a great gray blanket. The millions of rabbits devoured native plants and pushed native animals to near extinction. They made life miserable for sheep and cattle ranchers.
These cute, fuzzy creatures weren't a problem in England. Why did they turn into a plague in Australia? Could they be stopped? How? As you read this chapter, look for clues on factors that affect population growth. Then, solve the mystery.
Never Stop Exploring Your World.
Finding the solution to the rabbit population mystery is only the beginning. Take a video field trip with the ecogeeks of Untamed Science to see where this mystery leads.