Brazilian Rabbit: A Medium-Sized Hardy Breed

The Brazilian Rabbit is the name that carries this species and alludes to the fact that much of its area of distribution is in Brazilian territory. Sylvilagus Brasiliensis is the scientific name of this species. No further information on the natural history and biology of this species is known. The Brazilian Rabbit is a medium-sized hardy breed that originated in Brazil.

Brazilian Rabbits were developed as a meat breed and they are raised for their tender, flavorful rabbit meat. They grow to be between 8 and 10 pounds at maturity, which makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a smaller meat animal that will yield roasts and other cuts of high-quality meat. Brazilian Rabbits have been bred with New Zealand White rabbits making them larger than the original Brazilian Rabbit.

Brazilian Rabbit

Characteristics of Brazilian Rabbit

The Brazilian Rabbit is a lagomorph of small to medium size, its tail is remarkably small, as are its legs and ears. It has a coloration that varies from shiny gray to blackish on the dorsal side, fading to the sides of the body. The chin and belly are whitish except for a small dark spot in the throat region. The chest is gray orange, with a few velvety hairs.

The front legs are short. The fur on the outside of the front legs is opaque Rufus, whitish hands and feet. Unlike European rabbits, who dig burrows on the ground and use them to hide, rest and give birth to their children, the native rabbits do not make these holes. Unlike European rabbits, who dig burrows on the ground and use them to hide, rest and give birth to their children, the native rabbits do not make these holes.

Instead, they lie hidden in a thicket. Build nests on the ground, composed of dry bush material. These nests have a main central chamber and three to four adjacent chambers with a system of paths leading to the outside. In this nest, the offspring of this species are born. The pups remain in the nest when the mother goes out to get food. You May Also Like To Read Gotland Rabbit

Food

The Brazilian rabbit’s diet consists of grass, herbs, and sprouts. Among the species consumed, there are many kinds of grass (Poaceae), cutters and sedges (Cyperaceae). Consume leaves, buds, young branches and sometimes the bark of certain trees. They are opportunistic species that can consume from three to 12 species of plants, depending on their availability. You May Also Like To Read Enerby Island Rabbit.

Usage

The Brazilian Rabbit its usefulness is as a pet and for the production of its meat. Although today the main exploitation of this pet is to produce it to be a pet.

Geographical distribution

This species is can be found from the southern state of Tamaulipas to the Atlantic coast, also inhabits the south of Brazil. In Mexico, it occupies the states of Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Tabasco, Campeche, and Chiapas. In Colombia, it is present in the Caribbean, Pacific, and Andean regions, from sea level up to 3800 meters of elevation. Its complete range extends from Mexico to northern Argentina. 

This breed inhabits from tropical forests and jungles to grasslands near temperate forests. The Brazilian rabbit does not occur in high altitudes except for the Yucatan peninsula, and the southwestern part of South America. It is interesting to note that, although this rabbit usually lives in fairly open regions. It can also be found in the middle of the Amazon basin.

In this great jungle region, the rabbit inhabits mainly in marshy areas and along the rivers. Sites where there is more abundance of herbaceous vegetation than in the surrounding forest. The highest density of rabbits is finding in areas with a greater diversity of plant life forms. You May Also Like To Read Harlequin Rabbit

Facts

The Brazilian population of rabbits has been declining in recent years, although note that the number of pet rabbits is increasing considerably. It is not possible to estimate the quantity of meat produced since most are made in informal conditions. The demand for meat is greater than supply. The creation of pets has grown significantly in recent years and aroused the interest of new creators.

Special Feature

The reproductive period usually extends throughout the year. So human activities, main deforestation, have reduced the populations of this species in some places where this small leporid inhabits. Despite this decrease this species is not threatened, or in danger of extinction. Compared with other rabbits, this species reproduces slowly and its litters are small: normally only 2 or 3 offspring are born. You May Also Like To Read Angora Rabbit

The gestation period is 44 days and with an average of 4.7 individuals each year. It is a nocturnal and solitary animal. Although it can be active both day and night. Usually, this animal leaves at dusk and is usually found in forested areas and in places that are surrounded by tributaries. Likewise, this breed likes places that have plantations or gardens. The life expectancy of this species is between 5 and 10 years.

Rabbit Profile

Rabbit nameBrazilian Rabbit
Other NameMoorish rabbit, mule rabbit, and forest rabbit
Rabbit PurposeAs a pet and for the production of its meat
Coat colorGray shiny black and white in some areas
Weight0.7 to 1.25 Kg.
Climate ToleranceAll Climates
Country of OriginBrazil

Conclusion

As you can see, the Brazilian Rabbit is a medium-sized hardy breed that originated in Brazil. They were developed as a meat breed and are now considered one of the most popular pets for people living in urban areas. We hope this guide has helped answer some questions about these little creatures! Good luck with your search to find the perfect pet rabbit for you and your family!

As A References: Wikipedia

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top