Wild rabbits and domesticated rabbits differ in several key ways. Wild rabbits typically live 2-3 years and weigh 2-4 pounds, while domesticated rabbits can live 8-10 years in captivity and weigh between 2-15 pounds. Domesticated rabbits exist in many breeds and colors and are kept as pets, for show, for meat, and for their fur, while wild rabbits are hunted and part of the wildlife. Domesticated rabbits give birth inside nesting boxes, while wild rabbits may birth their young in burrows or out in the open.
3. THE WILD
RABBIT
• Scientific name: Sylvilagus floridanus
• Life span: up to 2-3 years.
• Length: 15 to 18 inches
• Weight: between 2-4 pounds
• Color: ranges from the many shades of brown and gray
• Uses: hunting and for wild life
4. THE DOMESTICATED
RABBITOryctolagus cuniculus
• Scientific Name:
• Lifespan: 8-10 years in captivity
• Length: 8 inches – 36 inches
• Weight: between 2-15 pounds
• Color: Many colors and variations ( Solid or Broken; Blue,
Black, Blue, Castor, Chocolate, Opal, Silver, Tan, Ect.)
• Uses: Show, Pets, Meat, Fur
5. USES: SHOW
• The American Rabbit Breeders Association now recognizes
about 47 breeds of the domesticated rabbit.
• Rabbits are shown through the ARBA as well as by youth
through 4-H programs.
• While being shown each rabbit must meet ARBA
Standards.
6. USES: PETS
• Most of us may know rabbits just as pets.
• Many are bought from pet stores and are mixed breeds
from the many recognized by the ARBA.
• (You can also show a mixed rabbit in 4-H programs.)
7. USES: MEAT
• There are a few types of rabbits that are raised for meat.
• The breeds include: The New Zealand White, Californian,
American, Chinchillas, Crème & Champagne D Argent’s.
9. WILD VS. DOMESTICATED:
RAISING THEIR YOUNG
• Rabbits in the wild are born in burrows inside of nests. They may
not even be in burrows but out in the open. Domesticated Rabbits
are born inside of a nesting box where the mother will build her
nest inside.