One of the beauties of rabbits is the
variety of breeds available. Currently more than 40 are recognized
in the U.S. There are also numerous varieties within these breeds
which provide further options. Breeds range in size from slightly
over two pounds to nearly 20 pounds. The most common sizes are the
intermediate breeds which include most of the “commercial” breeds.
Sizes average about 10 pounds. Another common size is the
“compact” breed which averages five to six pounds. (See Breed
Chart included in this brochure.)
Compact breeds are enjoying a surge resulting from the increase in
urban-suburban breeders who are faced with space problems. Their
smaller size requires cages about one third smaller than those for
intermediate rabbits. The compact doe will normally have litters
averaging five or six, compared to eight for an intermediate
breed.
LOCATING RABBITS
For the novice breeder, locating quality rabbits can be difficult.
The dealer from whom you buy your feed can usually put you in
contact with a good breeder. A check with the local county
extension office can be helpful. A local rabbit club will gladly
assist. Such rabbit clubs can be located through the American
Rabbit Breeders Association, Bloomington, Illinois. If you have
your heart set on a breed you cannot find locally, once again, the
American Rabbit Breeders Association can be helpful by steering
you to the national specialty club for that breed.
BREED CRITERION
Good rabbits aren’t cheap, but they don’t have to cost an arm and
a leg. They’re like used cars. A $300 car is a $300 car. Talk to
several breeders. Determine an average. Look at the size and
neatness of the various operations. Ask questions about litter
size, litters per year. Other questions will suggest themselves.
The willingness of the breeder to share information is important.
Beware of breeders who are reluctant to answer questions. They may
have secrets they don’t want to share or don’t know the answer.
There are invariably some things you will have to learn on your
own, but the fewer surprises you have, the better.
For More Information contact
AN_RabbitHelp@adm.com
ADM Alliance Nutrition, Inc. 1000 North 30th
Street P.O. Box C1 Quincy, IL USA 62305-3155
