If you are a rabbit lover, you know that there are many kinds of rabbits, but when it comes to exactly how many, you will hear different numbers depending on whom you ask. While the actual number of breeds is 191, some people might say that the number is as high as 370. Keep reading as we explain the reason behind the discrepancy and share several other interesting rabbit facts.
Rabbit Breeds in the World
In 2017, when the American Rabbit Association1 and the Britain Rabbit Council combined their research,2 they found 370 different types of rabbits. However, they whittled it down to 191 breeds after combining a few types based on breed qualities, which is where the number stands today. Rabbits exist in 70 countries, and each species has specific attributes, like fur length and color, size, climate preference, and breeding practice, that separates it from the others.
Are There Still Wild Rabbits?
While breeding rabbits for pets is extremely popular, there are still several wild rabbits in existence. In the United States, the Cottontail is easy to spot when it hops through your yard in the early mornings and evenings, especially if you have a nice garden that can provide shelter and food. The European Rabbit is a wild rabbit common in southwestern Europe and parts of Africa, and the Amami Rabbit is native to Japan.
What Rabbits Are the Most Popular?
Flemish Giant
As the name suggests, the Flemish Giant is a large breed that can weigh 20 pounds, making it a favorite among children and adults who like its laid-back personality.
English Lop
The English Lop is a relaxed and calm rabbit that many people like to keep as a companion. It’s one of the oldest breeds and has long, floppy ears that help it stand out.
Palomino Rabbit
The Palomino Rabbit is a popular pet in America due to its long, tall ears and docile nature. It gets its name from its color, which is a combination of golden brown with white highlights.
Californian White Rabbit
Breeders originally developed the Californian White for its fur, but it quickly became a favorite among pet owners due to its fluffy white coat, red eyes, and black ears.
Rex Rabbit
A popular pet is the Rex Rabbit, which owners enjoy because they are playful and like attention. These rabbits usually have tall, wide ears and a dark brown color.
What Breeds Does the American Rabbit Association Recognize?
The American Rabbit Association currently recognizes 50 breeds, which include the American, Californian, Dutch, and many others.
| American | American Chinchilla | American Fuzzy Lop | American Sable | Argente Brun |
| Belgian Hare | Beveren | Blanc de Hotot | Britannia Petite | Californian |
| Cavies | Champagne d’Argent | Checkered Giant | Cinnamon | Creme d’Argent |
| Dutch | Dwarf Hotot | Dwarf Papillon | English Angora | English Lop |
| English Spot | Flemish Giant | Florida White | French Angora | French Lop |
| Giant Angora | Giant Chinchilla | Harlequin | Havana | Himalayan |
| Holland Lop | Jersey Wooly | Lilac | Lionhead | Mini Lop |
| Mini Rex | Mini Satin | Netherland Dwarf | New Zealand | Palomino |
| Polish | Rex | Rhinelander | Satin | Satin Angora |
| Silver | Silver Fox | Silver Marten | Tan | Thrianta |
Other Interesting Rabbit Facts
- Rabbits are the third most popular pet.
- Rabbits will usually give birth to three to seven babies.
- Most rabbits sleep with their eyes open.
- You don’t need to bathe a rabbit.
- Rabbits shed their fur as the season changes, much like a cat or dog.
- Rabbits can see almost completely around their head.
- The ancient Romans were the first to keep rabbits as pets.
- The Cottontail Rabbit accounts for seven out of 13 rabbits.
Summary
There are currently 191 rabbit breeds in the world, and the American Rabbit Association recognizes 50 that you can enter into contests, including the American, Beveren, English Angora, and Mini Satin. The most popular pet breeds include the Flemish Giant, Californian White, English Lop, and the Rex. While there are still wild rabbits, including the Cottontail Rabbit native to the United States, the rabbits that people keep as pets come from breeders.
Featured Image Credit: NaruFoto, Shutterstock
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