Rabbit projects are great for families who live in town and provide youngsters the opportunity to learn how to raise and care for animals.
It is suggested that youngsters begin with a doe and extend the project each year. It is best to enroll in the fall to prepare for owning a rabbit for the first time.
Kansas 4-H Youth Development recognizes the authorized rabbit breeds and varieties of the American Rabbit Breeders Association for show purposes. The Kansas Rabbit Breeders Association is a strong supporter and partner in this high-quality project.
To learn more about the 4-H rabbit project there is 4-H Curriculum that can be purchased. Here is a breakdown of what 4-Hers can learn at different levels:
Ages 7-9:
Identify main breeds of rabbits
Identify the parts of a rabbit
Describe good feeding and watering practices
Learn to groom and show a rabbit
Ages 10-13:
Gain skills to manage and care for rabbits
Learn to care for newborn rabbits (kits)
Judge best rabbits for show
Ages 14-18:
Learn breeding, genetics, culling and determining pregnancy
Anatomy of rabbits
Learn best marketing practices
In addition to the curriculum, youngsters also may attend project meetings held by volunteers. Each year, they can demonstrate their hard work locally at the county fair and depending on age and placing, the Kansas State Fair. The State 4-H Rabbit Show is not an official ARBA show; however, includes opportunities to exhibit for conformation, fur, rabbit showmanship and rabbit judging.
The rabbit project is a great opportunity to learn important life skills. For more information about this project or the workshop, contact Jennifer K. Terrell, 4-H Youth Development for K-State Research and Extension Southwind District at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.