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Californian rabbit facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Californian rabbit, also known as the California White, is a special type of domestic rabbit. It was first created in 1923 by George S. West in Lynwood, California. He wanted to develop a rabbit that would be good for both its fur and its meat.

Mr. West started with a group of 300 New Zealand White rabbits. These rabbits were very purebred, meaning they didn't have genes from other types of rabbits like Angoras. He then bred them with two other rabbit types:

  • Standard Chinchilla rabbits, which have very thick fur.
  • Himalayan rabbits, which gave the Californian rabbit its unique dark markings.

His new breed was named "Californian" after the state where it was created. It was first shown to the public in 1928. Later, in 1939, the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) officially recognized the breed. This meant they set rules for what a Californian rabbit should look like.

  • Króliki kalifornijskie 666
    Californian rabbits
    "Standard" color variety
    (recognized by ARBA)
  • Króliki kalifornijskie californian rabbits
    Californian rabbit kits
    "Blue" color variety
    (recognized by the BRC)
  • Winninghimalayan
    FOR COMPARISON
    Himalayan rabbit
    (Note the "cylindrical" body type)

Appearance of the Californian Rabbit

Californian rabbits are known for their distinctive look. They have a white body with dark "points." These points are dark markings on their nose, ears, feet, and tail.

Recognized Colors

The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) only recognizes one color for the Californian rabbit. This is the original "Standard" color, which is white with dark points.

However, the British Rabbit Council (BRC) recognizes more colors. They accept the "Normal" color, plus three other point colors:

  • Chocolate points
  • Blue points
  • Lilac points

Size and Weight

Californian rabbits are medium to large-sized rabbits. Their weight can vary slightly depending on the rabbit association.

  • The British Rabbit Council (BRC) prefers a weight of about 9.5 pounds (4.3 kilograms). They accept a minimum weight of 7.5 pounds (3.4 kilograms).
  • The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) allows a maximum weight of 10.5 pounds (4.8 kilograms).
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