Here I am back into rabbits after a few years of not having them.
When it comes to small rabbits with big potential, the Florida White Rabbit stands out as a breed with a unique combination of qualities. Developed in the United States, this versatile rabbit was specifically designed for multiple purposes—whether for meat production, showing, or laboratory use. For those interested in breeding, raising rabbits for meat, or participating in rabbit shows, the Florida White is a fantastic breed to consider.
History of the Florida White Rabbit
The Florida White Rabbit is a relatively new breed, created in the 1960s by a man named Judge Orville Miliken from Florida. He aimed to develop a small, efficient meat rabbit with a high dress-out percentage, excellent for commercial production. By crossing Albino Dutch, Polish, and New Zealand Whites, the Florida White was born. What sets this breed apart from its predecessors is its compact size and fine bone structure, which maximizes meat-to-bone ratio—making it highly efficient for meat purposes.
Characteristics of the Florida White Rabbit
- Size & Weight: The Florida White Rabbit is considered a small breed, with adult rabbits weighing around 4 to 6 pounds. Despite its smaller size, it has a well-balanced frame and muscular build, making it ideal for meat production.
- Color: As its name suggests, the Florida White Rabbit is pure white, with pink eyes due to its albino gene. This gives it a distinct appearance that is both simple and elegant.
- Temperament: Florida Whites are known for their calm, docile nature. They are easy to handle, which makes them suitable for both novice breeders and families looking for a pet-friendly rabbit.
- Meat Production: Florida Whites are bred for efficiency. With their fine bone structure and a high dress-out percentage, they provide more meat relative to their size than many other breeds. Their meat is tender and flavorful, making them a favorite in the homesteading and meat rabbit communities.
Breeding and Care
Florida Whites, like other rabbits, are fairly easy to care for but require consistent attention to detail, especially when it comes to breeding for specific traits. In our breeding program, we focus on traits that align with the ARBA Standard of Perfection, ensuring quality stock for both show and meat purposes.
- Breeding Selection: We select for traits such as type, loin length, and mothering ability. Bucks are chosen for their strong build and well-muscled frame, while does are selected for their ability to produce large litters and care for their young.
- Housing & Feeding: Florida Whites require the same basic care as most rabbit breeds: a clean, spacious environment with plenty of ventilation, fresh hay, clean water, and a balanced rabbit pellet diet.
Showing Florida Whites
The Florida White is a breed recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) and has gained popularity in shows for its neat, compact type and excellent fur condition. When showing Florida Whites, judges look for rabbits with strong, well-balanced bodies and an ideal weight. They also take into account the coat’s cleanliness and uniformity, making grooming an essential part of show preparation.
Why Raise Florida Whites?
Whether you’re a homesteader looking to add a productive meat rabbit to your farm, a breeder aiming to raise top-quality stock, or even someone looking to participate in shows, the Florida White Rabbit offers a range of possibilities. Its compact size, excellent meat qualities, calm temperament, and show potential make it a versatile breed suitable for various purposes.
At [Farm Name], we take great pride in raising Florida White Rabbits that meet the highest standards. We carefully select our breeding stock to ensure that all our rabbits possess the desirable traits that make the breed so special.
In summary, the Florida White Rabbit is an excellent all-purpose breed with a rich history and unmatched efficiency in meat production. If you’re interested in adding this breed to your farm or rabbitry, stay tuned for updates on our For Sale page—coming soon!