The origins of the English Spot are uncertain. It is believed to be a descendent of the English Butterfly, and is known to go back to at least the mid-1800s. The breed was brought to the United States in 1910. Once sporting patches of color, the English Spot was selectively bred to achieve today’s spotted pattern. The English rabbit, also known as the English Spot, is a very well known breed and a common pet having been in existence within the UK for over 200 years.
An English rabbit should weigh between 6 and 8lbs (2.7 to 3.6 kg). Its markings are very distinctive with a white body and coloured spots, coloured ears, coloured smut on the nose and an unbroken coloured line along the spine. Ideally the markings on both sides should be equally balanced and the spots should increase in size towards the rump.
Description:
The English Spot’s body has a full arch and long, slender limbs that are perfect for running. Its head is well proportioned with the rest of the body, and its ears are fairly long, colored and upright. The most important feature in the English Spot is its markings. Only half of the rabbits most litters have the traditional markings, with spots and a stripe down the back. These are the only ones that are featured in shows. The rest of the average litter is split between solid-colored and partially marked rabbits.
The English Spot Rabbit is a medium-sized rabbit, with a short and easy-to-groom coat that is littered with unique spots, giving the breed their name. The English Spot is believed to be one of the oldest breeds of “fancy rabbit” (rabbits kept as pets), but the breed’s exact origin is unknown. They have been a common breed in the United Kingdom, where they were developed, since the late 1800s, and they were brought to the United States around 1910. The breed is thought to have descended from the Checkered Giant Rabbit due to their similarities, although the Checkered is far bigger than the English Spot. The breed was officially recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1924, and the American English Spot Rabbit Club was established soon afterward. If you are looking at adding an English Spot to your pet family, read on for more detailed information about this unique spotty rabbit!
Features
Recognized varieties of the English Spot include black, blue, chocolate, gray, gold, lilac, and tortoise. All of these names refer to the rabbit’s spots, as no background color other than white is permissible. The English rabbit is a medium sized rabbit with very few specialised requirements. As long as it has been handled regularly from a young age and is gradually introduced into a new home it is likely to make a very good pet. English Spots are reasonably easy to find, especially if you aren’t looking for show quality. Prices range from $5 for pet quality rabbits to $50 for show and breed stock.
Specification
| Species Name: | Oryctolagus cuniculus |
| Family: | Leporidae |
| Care Level: | Moderate |
| Temperament: | Friendly, energetic, curious |
| Color Form: | Black, blue, chocolate, gold, gray, lilac, and tortoise base, all with spots |
| Lifespan: | 5-9 years |
| Size: | Medium, 5-8 pounds |
| Diet: | Herbivore, predominantly hay |
| Minimum Enclosure Size: | 12 square feet |
| Compatibility: | Friendly, adaptable, low maintenance |
English Spot Rabbit Price
$50.00 – $500.00