Himalayan
The Himalayan rabbit is one of the breeds recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). It is characterized by its long, narrow cylindrical shaped pure white body with black, blue, chocolate or lilac coloring on its ears, nose, feet and tail.
This is one of those breeds with debate as to its original place of origin. It appears to have been known by many names such as Antwerp, Chinese, African, Egyptian, Egyptian Smut, Polish, Black Nosed Rabbit, Lapin d’ Anver, Russian, Mock Ermine, Warren Rabbit, and others. By the year 1889, Kempster W. Knight wrote that although this rabbit can be found in large numbers on the chain of mountains which it takes its name, these rabbits’ original homeland is not accurate. |
For the record, there have been several writings about white rabbits with black points in the 1800’s, though none of them specifically mentioned it to be named as Himalayan. This type of rabbit is thought to have been around overseas since the early 1800’s.
This breed first found its way in England during the year 1888 and was recognized in four varieties; Black, Blue, Chocolate, and Lilac. The Himalayan arrived in America in 1912 and was recognized shortly thereafter as a breed by the National Pet Stock Association (now known as the American Rabbit Breeders Association). Blue Himalayan’s imported from the United Kingdom were recognized by the ARBA on October 30, 1962. |
This rather small breed has a long, narrow, cylindrical shaped pure white body with black, blue, chocolate or lilac coloring on the ears, nose, feet and tail. Senior Bucks and Does 6 months old and older, weight between 2 1/2 to 4 1/2 pounds with an ideal weight of 3 1/2 pounds. Junior Bucks and Does under 6 months of age have a minimum weight requirement when showing of 1 1/4 pounds.
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