Wanted: Rabbit advice for meat, what breeds amd all info.

[FlaRocky]

Hello All,

I need help on what breeds are best for meat in hot, humid weather. I live in Florida and want to be more self-supporting for my dogs and myself. Just looked at rabbit meat in the local grocery store and they want $16.99 for a half a rabbit 22oz. Almost had a cow. Always ate wild rabbit as a kid. So processing is not a problem. Any and all help on where to start is much appreciated.

Thank-you,

Maye

 

[reereechickens]

Wow!

I never knew rabbit was that much! Well here is my 2 cents. I had domesticated rabbit 20+ years ago and have been craving it since, taste better than chicken IMO. Well hubby went rabbit hunting and I thought wild rabbit was tough like a year old roo. So you should REALLY like some domestic buns!

I would stick with the Californians and or New Zealand b/c they have short hair and lots of meat. I'm looking for Florida Whites b/c they are small but very meaty. I keep mine in the shade with lots of water hopefully someone from your area can help on how to keep them cool and what breed. I have a NZ doe that kindled 2 weeks ago and a CA buck. Her first litter was 10 but 5 died.
I have mine in hanging wire cages and found them(rabbits) on CL.
Try the sister website backyardherds.com or rabbittalk.com for more info.

HTH

PS-The best book on this is "Storey's guide to raising rabbit" by Bob Bennett

 

[FlaRocky]

Thank you for the information. I was at Publix when I saw the price. Cannot say what came out of mu mouth. Oh crap kinda...lol.

Maye

 

[MyTDogs]

Hi Maye,

I'll send you a PM regarding the rabbits...