Mosaictus Rabbit For Sale

New Zealand Rabbit Breed History/Origin

This unique breed of pet rabbits has such an interesting background it almost equals their fantastic character traits. Although their name suggests it, these rabbits are not actually from New Zealand. In fact, they are the first American rabbit breed to be developed. At the beginning of the 20th century, American breeders crossed the popular rabbit types from the ‘old country’ in hopes to develop a meat-producing, show quality rabbit. By 1913, their crosses with genes of Belgian Hares and Flemish Giants were gaining popularity under the name of New Zealand Red Rabbit. Soon after, the albino sports of the breed were developed separately. The first litter of what will become New Zealand White rabbits were born in 1917 when a New Zealand Red doe had four albino kits. The striking beauty of these pure white sports with crimson eyes prompted the breeder to try and replicate them through selective breeding. After this, the rest is history. In just a few years, American breeders managed to come up with a new and distinct breed of rabbit that will become one of the most popular amongst pet owners – many decades down the road!