Type
This rabbit has a commercial body type, usually weighs anywhere from 6.5 lbs to 8.5 lbs, but can be heavier.
Coat
Harlequin rabbits have short flyback fur.
Colors
The Harlequin rabbit breed is often called the clown of rabbits due to their unique colors and markings. There are two kinds of Harlequin rabbits: the Magpie and the Japanese. The Magpie has a white base with either black, blue, lilac or chocolate markings. The Japanese has a orange base with either black, blue, lilac or chocolate markings.
Markings
Harlequin rabbits are bred to have a 3 part frontal alteration. This means the ears must be different colors, the face must also be different colors and they must alternate with the ears. The chest and hind feet should also be two different colors.
History
The Harlequin is considered one of the oldest breeds of rabbit with its history dating back to the 1880s. It began its development in France by crossing semi-wild Tortoiseshell Dutch rabbits with legitimately wild rabbits. These crossings produced the first Harlequin rabbits albeit with less than desirable markings.
The first Harlequins were exhibited in Paris in 1887 and were imported into England a few years later. Originally Harlequins were called the Japanese but during WW2 the name was changed.
Harlequins were used for meat during WW2. Harlequins are nicknamed the jester of rabbits because of their color separations and markings.
The first Harlequins were exhibited in Paris in 1887 and were imported into England a few years later. Originally Harlequins were called the Japanese but during WW2 the name was changed.
Harlequins were used for meat during WW2. Harlequins are nicknamed the jester of rabbits because of their color separations and markings.
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