Harlequin
Dutch &
Black Dutch Rabbits
We
did much research before deciding
on the type of rabbits that we
would raise. We were quickly approaching
the idea of a giant when we began
to think about the reasons we
had chosen many of our other breeds.
Smaller stock usually lives longer,
grows faster, and eats less. They
also tend to provide a good feed
to body weight ratio. We then
rethought our strategy.
We
found some Harlequin Dutch bunnies
at the TSC store and was shocked
that they had such a minor variety.
We made an inquiry and found that
a wonderful breeder was nearby
Woodscapes Wabbitry. We have started
with a Black buck and two Harlequin
does.
Dutch
Rabbits
Harlequin
Dutch -- the "Bumble bee
of the rabbit fancy" and
the "jewel of the Dutch"
also called Tricolored Dutch and
Japanese Dutch.
The
Dutch is a very old breed of rabbit.
It is believed to be derived from
the ancient Brabancon race found
in 15th century paintings. Dutch
rabbits originated in England
from stock from Netherlands. Dutch
rabbits are called Hollanders
in Europe. Harlequin Dutch are
an old breed.
Harlequin
Dutch are new to the US, coming
to the states in the 1990's. It
has not currently been accepted
by the ARBA standards. However
it is accepted in Europe and there
is a drive to get the varitey
recognized here.
Dutch rabbits while a pain to
get a "perfect" specimen
grow quickly and are quite docile.
They are smaller rabbits but grow
quickly. The mothers produce much
milk and make excellent foster
mothers.
References & Links
Bob
Whitman, http://rarebitsandpieces.com/harlequindutch.htm
CenteralPets, http://www.centralpets.com/animals/mammals/rabbits/rbt1534.htm
http://www.geocities.com/doubledutch84/harldut.html
Jill Pfaff, http://jillswilddutchbunch.freehosting.net/
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