Rabbits Pictures

Rabbits Pictures - History of Breeding

Picture source: Richmond Adoption and Education Center

Initially rabbits were mostly found as wild animals in Spain and Portugal, as well as in North West Africa. It was not until the 11th century that they were brought to England. Since then rabbits were kept for meat and fur. In the 19th century, they obtained the status of domestic animals.

Later in different parts of the world various breeder clubs started developing. They brought together specialists, who were involved in generating new breeds. The English Lop was actually the pioneer breed in the history of pet rabbit keeping. It was followed by the Angora Rabbit, which is renowned for its excellent coat and, therefore, widely used in fur production.

Rabbits' innocent and non-predatory nature has earned them a highly positive image in the minds of people. In literature and, later, in cartoons, they are presented as positive characters. The rabbit is included in the Chinese horoscope. This is one of the few species, which doesn't kill to eat.

Rabbits Pictures - Description

All rabbits have relatively long ears. The length of the ears is measured from the tip of one to that of the other. Well-developed hind legs give them the ability to make long jumps. Dense fur on the hind legs makes landing less palpable when hopping allowing them to cover long distances, sometimes reaching several miles a day.

Rabbits have 8 strong and sharp teeth (incisors). Until 1912, they were referred to as rodents. The incisors are constantly set firmly together, which keeps them sharp throughout their entire life. They seem to know lots of other ways to maintain the sharpness of their teeth. One of the ways, as observed by rabbit keepers, is biting on household objects and furniture. Rabbit bites are very painful, however, rabbits as a whole are non aggressive.