Harlequin Rabbit Breed: Info, Pictures, Traits, Facts

One of the most curiously colored breeds available today, the Harlequin rabbit easily stands out in a crowd! With their mysterious origin story and once sky-high prices, this breed has been a fascination for rabbit fanciers since their appearance in late 1800s France.

Are you curious to know more about this distinctive two-toned breed? In today’s article, we will be looking at the history of this gorgeous animal and giving helpful hints on how to care for one in your home. By the time you’re finished, you’ll know everything you need to consider before adopting a Harlequin rabbit!

History and Origin of the Harlequin Rabbit Breed

The earliest records of what is now known as the Harlequin rabbit come from 1872 in Tokyo, Japan. In fact, the original name for this intriguingly colored breed bears witness to their origin: They used to be called the “Japanese” across the U.S. and England until the Second World War when they received their current name.

Elsewhere in the world, the Harlequin is still known by the original name. As early as 1890, an enterprising French rabbit fancier traveled to Japan to purchase a breeding pair. Upon returning to Europe, breeding commenced immediately and spread quickly. Reaching Chicago by 1917, they sold for an astonishing $40 each—the equivalent of nearly $900 today!

The Harlequin was inducted into the American Rabbit Breeders Association registry in 1914; they have been a fixture in rabbit competitions ever since.

General Description

Harlequins are most recognizable for their unique coloration. Viewed from the front, their face is divided evenly from top to bottom into two colors; each side of the body then features five to seven bands of alternating colors. Furthermore, their legs and ears also exhibit this alternating color pattern.

With a well-muscled commercial body type, the Harlequin is heavier than medium-sized rabbits, reaching up to 10 pounds fully grown. Though they once enjoyed great popularity in the United States, they are considered a rare breed today.

Nutrition and Health

A long history of complex interbreeding has lent the Harlequin a robust constitution with few health problems. They will likely live up to a decade if you provide a healthy diet and exercise.

You will cover almost all their nutritional bases by feeding them a standard diet of plentiful fresh hay and filtered water. You can supplement it with a daily serving of dark, leafy greens to provide essential vitamins and minerals, and keep any sugary snacks as only occasional treats.

Provide your Harlequin with plenty of space to stand, stretch, and explore inside their enclosure. Also, consider litter training them so they can explore your house while you are around. An active rabbit is a happy rabbit!

Grooming

Of all the rabbit breeds with distinctive coats, perhaps only the Harlequin requires extra grooming to keep their fur in prime condition. A weekly brushing will suffice for most of the year. However, when their spring shedding season arrives, expect to increase this to three times per week to prevent digestive problems from eating hair.

Temperament

Owing partly to their long-time purpose as show animals, Harlequins are gentle and perpetually curious rabbits. They love to roam and explore and should be encouraged to nose around your house under supervision. Because they avoid conflicts, they are better off only being paired with rabbits and not kept in the same household as cats or dogs.

Final Thoughts

No matter what name you call them by, the Harlequin rabbit is immediately recognizable by their fascinating coloration. They’re mild-mannered, enjoyable to be around, and make fantastic house pets. Consider adopting a Harlequin if you are interested in a rabbit that will always draw loving stares from your friends and guests!

Related Reads:

• How Much Does a Harlequin Rabbit Cost?
• Welsh Harlequin Duck: Facts, Uses, Origins, Pictures & Characteristics

Featured Image Credit: LNbjors, Shutterstock