History of the Himalayan Rabbit


The History of the Himalayan Rabbit: Everything We Know
(Condensed from articles about the Himalayan Rabbit's History, written and compiled by Carl "Eli" Shepherd)

The History of the Himalayan rabbit is very vague. There are many thoughts and theories of Himalayans. Actually there is no sound solid proof of where the Himalayan rabbit actually came from. There is little tangible evidence to indicate that it even came from the Himalayan Mountain area as many claim. Records indicate that this rabbit is known by over 20 names, which cause one writer to comment that "It is the most Christian rabbit having so many names."  This rabbit is called, in various parts of the world, the Russian, the Chinese, the Egyptian, the Black Nose, and on and on. It is known as one of the oldest established breeds with a wider distribution throughout the world than any other rabbit. Himalayans, for the most part, will breed true to type and color.

It is believed at some remote time in its history, that its ancestors were Silver rabbits in part. As in some litters of today, at birth, soon seem to be white slightly tinged all over with silver gray, and some are almost a solid gray. The Silver-gray or the Solid gray gradually leaves the baby rabbit and its coat becomes snow white, with its extremities, (nose, ears, feet & tail) gradually darkening until they reach a rich, velvety Black, Blue, Chocolate or Lilac.


History of the Himalayans in the United States
(also condensed from articles by Carl "Eli" Shepherd)

Judge Harry Rice of Ohio, who  has judged rabbits for over 50 years. Rice is also quite a talker.

He told me that around the turn of the century, or real early 1900's, that Himalayans were shipped into the united States from England, along with what he called the "Belgian Hare Boom." He said most breeders of other breeds also had some Himalayans. As at that time, Himalayan fur was the best of all rabbit furs. Back then, they were known as the Ermine fur of rabbits. This was before Rex and Satin fur came along. Many raised them for their valuable fur, as well as to show. Even judge Harry Rice had a few Himalayans at one time in the early 1900's.

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