Thomas Austin was an English settler in Australia who is generally noted for the introduction of rabbits into Australia in 1859.

As a member of the Acclimatisation Society of Victoria, Thomas Austin helped to introduce many species from England. In 1861 he wrote that he had introduced hares, blackbirds and thrushes, and that he was breeding English wild rabbits and partridges.[4]

He introduced 24 breeding rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) on his estate in southern Australia, near Melbourne, in October 1859 as game for shooting parties. While his efforts were praised at the time, he has borne the brunt of blame for introducing this pest to Australia.... More • http://en.wikipedia. ... mas_Austin View • Books • Images • Videos • Search Related • Settlers • 1860s • Australia • Immigration • Industrial Revolution • Nature • People