Rabbit farming is among livestock animals being kept by farmers. In Kenya, there are several rabbit types you might want to keep in your care. This blog shows different types of rabbits and their uses in Kenya.
There are almost seven different types of rabbit in Kenya, namely New Zealand White, California White, Chinchilla, Angora Rabbit, French Lop, Flemish Giant, and lastly, Dutch. However, only three of them are commonly bred.
7 Types of Rabbits Found in Kenya
1. New Zealand White
This is a type of rabbit that is for meat and fur. It grows faster and a large rabbit can grow up to 5 kg in weight. It has thick fur around its neck, but it’s shorter near the ears. It also has normal eyes, ranging from red to pink in colour.
2. California White
It is a type of rabbit that was crossbred from New Zealand and the Himalayan. Its body shape is round with a black nose, ears, feet, and tail and bright pink eyes. It has a weight of 4.5 kg and a coat of dense white fur.
3. Chinchilla
It is a large-sized type of rabbit developed as a multi-purpose animal for fur and meat. This type of rabbit adult weighs between 4 and 6 kg. The coat is soft and beautiful, and the ears are straight and erect.
4. Dutch
It is a fairly small type of rabbit that is compact with shorter forelegs. It often has characteristic markings.
5. Flemish Giant
It is the largest rabbit, weighing 7 kg (live weight), a mature rabbit. It comes in many varieties of colours, with V-shaped ears. It has a high bone-to-meat ratio, so it is not suitable for meat.
6. French Lop
This type is a docile rabbit with characteristic long droopy ears that are easily noticeable. This rabbit has short legs and is quite heavy. It looks attractive and makes a good pet. It is also preferred as meat.
7. Angora Rabbit
This is the oldest type of rabbit which is bred mainly for its wool because it is silly and soft. This rabbit has a humorous appearance. It is a calm and docile rabbit, but it should be handled carefully.
There are mainly three types of rabbits being reared in Kenya. These include: New Zealand White, California White, and Chinchilla.
Six Hybrid Rabbits Reared in Kenya
In Kenya, various hybrid rabbits are being raised. These hybrid rabbits mature quickly, have more meat, and are marketable in Kenya. These hybrid rabbits include:
1. California white
2. Dutch
3. Checkered
4. Chinchilla
5. Angora
6. New Zealand
The main rabbit breeds kept in Kenya are New Zealand white, Crossbreeds, California white, Chinchilla, Flemish Giant, and French Lope.
The best rabbit breed for meat in Kenya is the Chinchilla, which is a grey or brown rabbit that is preferred for the meat of its larger mature size.
According to Kari’s research, three main rabbit breeds do well in Kenya; those are California, Chinchilla, and New Zealand white. Also, the Flemish giant is very well known around the country.
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