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Enderby Island rabbit Hello Listener! Thank you for listening. If you would like to support the podcast, and keep the lights on, you can support us whenever you use Amazon through the link below: It will not cost you anything extra, and I can not see who purchased what. Or you can become a Fluffle Supporter by donating through Patreon.com at the link below: Patreon/Hare of the Rabbit What's this Patreon? Patreon is an established online platform that allows fans to provide regular financial support to creators. Patreon was created by a musician who needed a easy way for fans to support his band. Please support Hare of the Rabbit Podcast financially by becoming a Patron. Patrons agree to a regular contribution, starting at $1 per month. Patreon.com takes a token amount as a small processing fee, but most of your money will go directly towards supporting the Hare of the Rabbit Podcast. You can change or stop your payments at any time. Thank you for your support, Jeff Hittinger. Word of the Week: Lucrative Folktale: How the Rattlesnake learned to bite News: Hanford’s Storybook Set to Open Joe Chianakas Pre-Releases The Final Book In His Famous Rabbit In Red Series Rare footage reveals Alice in Wonderland was released as a 52-minute silent movie 100 years ago Girl sews 'Bunnies of Hope' to provide comfort for patients Drones used to target Lincolnshire hare coursers Venezuelan president's plan to beat hunger Vice president's pet rabbit hops into book deal Bill would require pet stores to sell rescue animals Stone Bridge Preserve: Conservation Project Creates New England Cottontail Habitat Amazon Purchases: Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/HareoftheRabbit/ Enderby Island Rabbit Breed The Enderby Island Rabbit, which is also referred to as the Enderby Rabbit, is a breed that descended from the rabbits that were taken from Australia to be released on Enderby Island in October of 1865. The animals survived in isolation on the island for almost 130 years, during which they became a distinct breed. We are going to look at the history of the Enderby Rabbit, so be prepared to take a remarkable journey of hope, survival, fortitude, lifesaving, rescue, destruction and preservation. This story is like no other in the world of domestic rabbits. Whales were plentiful in the waters that surrounded the Auckland's and the shores would prove to be rich with sea lions, but at the same time shipwrecks were abundant in the rough and dangerous waters around these six volcanic islands. Castaways would attempt to survive for weeks and months, in hopes of a rescue ship finding them. Back in Australia, the Acclimatization Society of Victoria was formed in 1861, with the aim of introducing exotic plants and animals to suitable parts of the colony and to procure animals from Great Britain and other countries. Shortly after the organization was founded, a gift of 4 silver-grey rabbits was presented to the Society in 1864. In a letter dated 3 October, 1865 Jas. G. Francis, Commissioner of Trade and Customs advised Commander William Henry Norman, of the H.M.C.S. VICTORIA I to search the Auckland Islands for possible persons in distress and 'With the view of making provisions, to a certain extent, for any persons who may hereafter be wrecked or in distress upon these islands, the Acclimatization Society have put on board a number of animals, which will be good enough to let loose on the island." There would be 12 rabbits on board ship that set sail Wednesday, October 4, 1865. So Enderby Island rabbits are descendants of English Silver Greys, (not the Champagne de Argente as previously reported in various papers and scientific journals). In some of the research, I found that Bob Whitmann in his research of the breed had locate Mrs. Margaret Levin, of Queensland, Australia who is the great-great-granddaughter of Com. Norman.- She became fascinated with his research project and has provided pictures of the ship, the commander, her crew and best of all, copies of the journal and logbooks of this historic voyage. It should be noted that Margaret was also a rabbit breeder while living in Victoria. From Com. Norman's Journals. "Saturday, 14th. - No traces of pigs or other animals being observed near here; landed four goats, sent by the Acclimatization Society. Some small patches of English grass growing about the old settlement. Later in the day, one of the men reported having seen a dog. This deterred me from landing some rabbits and fowls as I had intended." There is an error in his journal as he write Monday. 18th and this would have actually been Wednesday. 18th "At 4:30 a.m. started for Enderby Island, and anchored in the sandy bay referred to yesterday, at 5 a.m. Sent on shore ten goats and twelve rabbit; these at once took to the English grass, on which I have no doubt they will thrive well. Weighed again at 7:30a.m., and steamed slowly round the island." The H.M.S.C. VICTORIA I returned to its home port, Hobson's Bay, at 1:30 p.m. Monday, November 27, 1865, having found no castaways. Now it should be noted that this was not the first time that rabbits were let released on Enderby Island. The British "EREBUS" and "TERROR" expedition, of Sir James Clark Ross. These rabbits were killed off by the Maoris who did not leave the island until March 1856. Enderby Island is 1,700 acres in size, cold, windy and with high humidity. Except for the coastal cliffs and rocks, along with a few acres of sand hills, the island is pretty much covered with a dense blanket of peat. The 12 rabbits would thrive and multiply, burrowing into the sandy hillsides and dry peat. In 1867, the survivors of the GENERAL GRANT caught many rabbits, as did the survivors of the DERRY CASTLE in March of 1887. During the next 100 years, the rabbits of Enderby would be up and down in population. In 1874, H.M.S. BLANCHE found the island "over-run with black rabbits". 1886 in a report to the Royal Society of Victoria it was reported that the rabbits were fast dying out or rather starved out, having eaten most all the grass and reverting to thickly set mossy plants. By 1894 the HINEMOA reported "rabbits swarm, and greatly reduce the value of the pasturage ... one of the party shot over twenty in the course of short excursion. 25 head of cattle and many rabbits were reported by Oliver in 1927. In 1932 the pastoral lease of the island ended and in 1934 the New Zealand (NZ) government made the island a reserve for the preservation of native flora and fauna. The NZ National Parks and Reserves Authority approved the Auckland Island Management Plan on January 12, 1987 to eliminate all man introduced animals from the islands. A study by B.W. Glentworth in 1991, showed a rabbit population of between 5,000 to 6,000 rabbits. Rabbits were destroying that native vegetation at an alarming rate and playing havoc with the sea lion pup population. The numerous rabbit burrows along Sandy Bay is an important breeding ground for this threatened sea lion species, as pups would become trapped in the burrows and die. It is estimated that over 10% of the pups would die trapped in the burrows. The Canterbury Chapter of the Rare Breeds Conservation Society of NZ (RBCSNZ), having heard of the rabbit's eradication plan, began setting up a project to rescue a breeding population of the Enderby Island Rabbit through the dedicated efforts of Mrs. Catreona Kelly as Project Manager. Michael Willis and Dr. Dave Matheson, D.V.M. of the Rare Breeds Society along with Wayne Costello and Trevor Tidy from the NZ Department of Conservation (DOC) would travel on board the naval diving ship MANAWANUI, arriving on Enderby on Tuesday 15, September, 1992 at 11 :30 p. m .. A permit was secured to trap 50 rabbits in just a very few days. Various modes of trapping were used, baffle traps and funnel nets at the warren entrances, soft-jaw leg hold traps, proved to be of little use, but 200 meters of wing netting would be the most successful. Rabbits would be trapped from four locations, which were given warren names; Enderby, Stella, Rata and Base. By September 19th, 50 rabbits had been captured, 15 does (females) and 35 bucks (males). Dive teams ferried the rabbits on inflatable Zodiacs back to the main ship in rather difficult swell conditions. Of special note, it was during this recovery, that the last two surviving members of the Enderby Island cattle breed were discovered. The cow, named lady and her calf, which soon died would make world history, as Lady is the largest mammal ever cloned, first cow cloned to have calve, and the first attempt at cloning to save a rare breed, well it's a story all to its own. The 49 rabbits (one died of a back injury) would arrive at Somes Island in Wellington Harbor on September 25th at 6 p.m. to begin a one-month quarantine period, which ended on October 28, 1992. There would be 3 kits (young) born during this period. Each rabbit was carefully inspected, handled, identified with an ear tag and given a permanent tattoo. Rabbits were split into three different destination groups, one for Wairarapa, and another for New Plymouth and the rest for Christchurch. All rabbits born were carefully recorded in the stud book by Mrs. Kelly. All rabbits were the property of the D.O.C. however ten dedicated caregivers would be entrusted with the rabbits, under contract, with the RBCSNZ. In 1998 private ownership of the Enderby Island rabbits would begin as the numbers of rabbits increased. The eradication program took place from February 9 through May 8, 1993 with a team of four people and a specially trained rabbit-tracking dog named Boss. The rabbits would be killed with a green dyed cereal pellet containing Brodifacoum, which was sowed using a helicopter. The last Enderby Island rabbit would be caught and destroyed on April 12, 1993 ending a 127 year period of natural selection. Enderby Island rabbits are the world's rarest breed of rabbit, with less than 300 animals in existence. Most are black, but there are few known cream colored ones and even fewer blues. The breed evolved from the English Silver Greys, and not the Champagne de Argente as previously reported in various papers and scientific journals. A brief background on the silvers from Bob Whitman who had been a collector of old rabbit books for 30 years. In his research some of the earliest works state that the Silver came from Siam and brought to England by traders, other works say that Silver Greys existed thousands of years ago in India and were brought to Europe by Portuguese sailors early in the 17th century. Gervase Markham in 1631 wrote that rabbits with silver tips to their hairs were being kept in warrens in England. It is well documented that Silvers appeared in the warrens of Lincolnshire, England amongst wild rabbit and were known as Sprigs, Millers, Lincolnshire Silver Greys, Chinchilla Silver Grey, Riche and more simply put Silver Grey. The breed was first shown in England in 1860. A buff colored Silver Grey doe took first honors at the Crystal Palace Poultry Show in the "Foreign Class" in 1863. Mature weight at the time was 6 to 9 pounds. Thousands of them were being raised in the warrens of 1850s for table purposes in the larger cities, and the skins were bought up for exportation to Russia and China. The first English breed standard was set up in 1880. The Champagne de Argente was not introduced into the Britain until 1920 and weighed a hefty 9 to 11 pounds. English breeders have perfected the silver breed to have an even silvering over the entire body, including the head, feet and tail. The fur is sleek, with a fly back coat. In one of Bob Wittman's early books, Manuals for the Many the Rabbit Book, circa 1855, there is a wood engraving that screams Enderby Island Rabbit. I quote, "The head and ears are nearly all black with a few white hairs. These white hairs are more numerous on the neck, shoulders, and back; but on all the lower parts, such as the chest or belly, the number of white hairs is greater than those of a blue or black color." So there you have it, a very condensed version of a remarkable story. Some 250 plus generations, of natural selection during a course of 127 years of near total isolation on a sub Antarctic island called Enderby, where a nucleus of 12 rabbits would evolve to become their own breed called Enderby Island. Overall Description The Enderby Island Rabbit is a rare and endangered breed.The Enderby Island Rabbit has a medium length body that features a slight taper from the front to the hindquarters, and the back will also be slightly arched. The head, which is well set upon the shoulders, should be medium in size and it should be in proportion with the rest of the body. There is not a visible neck, and the ears are carried in the shape of a “V”. The eyes are bold. The legs and the feet are fine to medium boned, and the nails will match the body color. In general, when looking at an Enderby Island Rabbit, you will notice that the body is fine-boned and slim. The head will be small, and the ears will be delicate and upright. Body to be medium in length, with a slight taper from the hindquarters to front, with a slightly arched back. Leaning towards a racy look. The head is to be medium in size and in proportion to the body. It is to be well set in the shoulders and show no visible neck. The ears are to be in proportion and firmly set on head. They are to be carried in a "v", not necessarily together. The feet and legs are to be medium to fine in bone and good length. The Nails are to match the body colour. Litters are rather small with 2, 3 and 4 kits, with a record being 8 Weight: Although descended from the Silver Greys which weighed between 8 and 9 lbs the Enderby island rabbit has evolved to be a little smaller with the average weight ranging from 3 to 4 lbs. Coat The coat of the Enderby Island Rabbit is soft and short. The body is rather heavily silvered in most animals, with about 80% silvering. The extremities, i.e., the head ears, feet and tail are much darker and only lightly silvered, with a pronounced butterfly marking on the nose. The coat is unlike the Silver breed, being more open, longer and soft in texture. The youngsters can be rather slow to silver and may require 6 to 8 months to complete the cycle. Adults become more silvered over the years. Faults: Coat too harsh, woolly, thin or short Serious Fault: White hairs in armpits Disqualifications: White patches on colored fur or colored patches on white fur. Colors Enderby Rabbits can come in a few different colors, but the majority of them will be a distinct silver-grey with a dark slate blue undercoat. The ears, tail, and head will be darker and are often black. Slate–Undercolor showing a dark slate blue. silvering on body, medium preferred. Champagne– Under showing a lighter shade of slate blue. Silvering on body seen a medium to heavy. The whole evenly and moderately interspersed with longer, jet black hairs and silver tipped hairs. Head, ears, feet & tail can range from almost black with light silvering. To less of the base color showing through the points, due to an increased amount of silvering in the body Crème - Undercolor orange to go down as far as possible, body color creamy white, the whole evenly and moderately interspersed with longer orange hairs and silver tipped hairs. Darker markings on head, ears, feet & tail permissible with less silvering than the main body. White underbelly is permissible. Evenness and Brightness of Silvering - The evenness of silvering is more important than the degree of silvering. Silvering is to be evenly distributed over the body with exception of head, feet and tail showing more of the base color. A diamond shape of un-silvered fur on the forehead permissible until fully mature.(mask to have silvering) Under 5 months - Slate/Champagne kits are born black. Creme kits are born a fawn color. Silvering starts to show from about 6-8 weeks and can take up to 6 months to come into their full coat. Solid patches of the base color will be seen on the juvenile coat. Under 5's should be judged for their general type and evenness of silvering that is coming through at the time of showing. A diamond shape of un-silvered fur on the forehead permissible until fully mature.(mask to have silvering). Acceptable colors for this rabbit breed include slate, champagne, and crème. Champagne and slate rabbits are actually born black, and crème rabbits are born featuring a fawn color. The body will become heavily silvered (roughly 80% silvering) in most Enderby Rabbits, but the feet, tail, ears, and head will be lightly silvered. I suppose you could say there are two varieties of Enderby Island. They come mainly in the silver-grey but a very small percentage are born cream or beige-colored – a shade produced by a recessive gene You will notice the Enderby Island Rabbit’s distinct silvering begin to appear on the coat at around 6 to 8 weeks. It could take up to 6 months or more for it to come into the full coat. Also, the juvenile coat of the Enderby Rabbit will feature solid patches in the base color. And as the rabbits age, they will become even more silvered. Care Requirements The coat of an Enderby Island Rabbit will become heavily silvered.If you are planning on bringing an Enderby Island Rabbit into your family, you should have enough room for a large enclosure that will keep your pet safe and comfortable. Your rabbit should be able to stand up, turn around, and stretch while in his cage, and he should be able to come out of the cage regularly in order to play and interact with you. You can keep your Enderby Island Rabbit indoors or outside, as this breed is hardy and accustomed to cold weather, but be sure to protect him from predators. Indoors, make room for your pet to run around and exercise outside of the cage, and give him an area where he can get access to fresh air and sunshine. If you want to let your rabbit spend some time outside, you can place your rabbit in an exercise pen, lawn enclosure, or extension hut for safety. Feed your Enderby Rabbit a diet that consists of pellets, hay, and vegetables. You can include grass hays like orchard, oat, and timothy hays, and you can purchase pellets designed for rabbits. Fresh foods, such as dark, leafy greens, should also be provided. Limit the amount of starchy veggies and fruits that your rabbit eats, and always provide fresh, clean water. It was noted that the breed had adapted to eating seaweed. Health Keep your pet’s environment as stress-free as possible because stress alone could lower your rabbit’s ability to resist disease. Like other rabbits, the Enderby Island Rabbit might be susceptible to ear mites, conjunctivitis, bloat, hairball obstructions, and intestinal problems, such as coccidiosis. Rabbit Care & Handling These rabbits can be very affectionate, especially when a treat or food is on offer. They are very neat and tidy rabbits too and you will usually find, especially does have a tendency to keep their nest area in ship-shape condition. They do love being outside and have not really been adapted for indoor environments, the breed being evolved from a very cold, sub-antartic island. Their diet is the same for any other rabbit but just be careful not to overfeed as they can be a little greedy and do not carry excess weight well as they will be unable to groom themselves properly. Temperament/Behavior Enderby Rabbits are prone to being skittish, but you can reduce the amount of nervousness that your pet feels by simply providing him with plenty of attention and gentle handling. When an Enderby Island Rabbit is properly socialized, he will be affectionate towards the people that he has grown to trust. Bond with your pet by grooming him and giving him treats. Eventually, your rabbit might show you how much he loves you by licking and kissing you. They can be quite skittish and nervous and on the look out for predators all the time. This makes them want to naturally burrow and hide. Also keep in mind that, like all rabbits, the Enderby Rabbit is a social creature that is happiest when it is with other rabbits, so if you have the space for two or three rabbits, or you don’t have the time to dedicate to interacting with your rabbit, consider getting more than one. For several years all animals remained the property of the Rare Breeds Conservation Society of New Zealand with breeding programmes being undertaken by individual caregivers. Some animals are now available for purchase by private enthusiasts, and some have even been exported to North America. Clubs Today the Enderby Island rabbit as a breed is not only rare but also endangered. The breed is endangered due to the large number of hybrids formed with individuals crossing the Enderby with other domestic rabbit breeds. The Enderby is not recognised by the BRC (British Rabbit Council) or the ARBA, (American Rabbit Breeders Association). Through the determined and dedicated efforts to keep the breed alive Sitereh and Chris Schouten of Nature's Pace near Christchurch, the Enderby Island rabbit was given breed status by the Rabbit Council of New Zealand in April, 2002 when it was accepted into their book of Standards. It should also be noted that Sitereh, is now the official recorded keeper of all Enderbys. The Enderby Island Rabbit Club of NZ has been created to protect, further and coordiante the interests of all Enderby Island Rabbit Breeders and to assist and extend the exhibition of Enderby rabbits. For a full run down on points for judging, you can purchase a copy of the standards from RCNZ THANK YOU RBCSNZ for saving this breed. Breeders, Clubs & Organizations Enderby Island Rabbit Breeders The following names and contact details are in New Zealand and are all Enderby Island specialized breeders: Elaine & Chris Gilberd, Warwickzfarm, Main South Road, Dunsandel, R D 2., LEESTON 8151. (Canterbury) Phone: (03) 325 4116. Fax: (03) 325 4539. E-mail: warwickzfarm (at) warwickzfarm.com Ava Hunt, 182 Drummond Oreti Road, R D 3, WINTON 9783. Phone: (027) 275 4713. E-mail: ava.hunt (at) xtra.co.nz Lorne and Pamela Kuehn, Waitangi Estate, Kaituna, R. D. 2, CHRISTCHURCH 8021 Phone/ Fax (03) 329 0822 E-mail lpkuehn (at) cyberxpress.co.nz Suzanne Shillito, Perrymans Road, R D 2, CHRISTCHURCH. Phone/Fax: (03) 325 3380, E-mail shillito (at) xtra.co.nz Chris & Sitereh Schouten. Phone: (03) 327 4211 E-mail cands.schouten (at) clear.net.nz For details see Natures Pace. Wee Dram Farm, 492 Oxford Road, Fernside, R D 1, RANGIORA. Phone: (03) 310 6443 E-mail: weedram (at) iconz.co.nz http://www.petguide.com/breeds/rabbit/enderby-island-rabbit/ https://www.rarebreeds.co.nz/enderbyrabbit.html http://www.justrabbits.com/enderby-island.html http://www.roysfarm.com/enderby-island-rabbit/ http://eircnz.tripod.com/ http://www.rabbitcouncil.co.nz/rabbit-breeds/enderby-island https://www.teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/38518/enderby-island-rabbits-grazing-1973 http://vetbook.org/wiki/rabbit/index.php?title=Enderby_Island http://www.nationalrabbitassociation.co.nz/enderby-island https://books.google.com/books?id=CI8531CO-dsC&pg=PA321&lpg=PA321&dq=Enderby+Island+Rabbits&source=bl&ots=B9wqB9DgAf&sig=Hg0QyniJ-w3mDSd8ttlboqdXzao&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwir1Zj_tpTWAhWi5lQKHYtRBmU4ChDoAQg-MAc#v=onepage&q=Enderby%20Island%20Rabbits&f=false http://www.nationalsilverrabbitclub.co.uk/?q=book/export/html/45 How the Rattlesnake learned to bite http://www.firstpeople.us/FP-Html-Legends/HowtheRattlesnakeLearnedtoBite-Pima.html After the people and the animals were created, they all lived together. Rattlesnake was there, and was called Soft Child because he was so soft in his motions. The people like to hear him rattle, and little rest did he get because they continually poked and scratched him so that he would shake the rattles in his tail. At last Rattlesnake went to Elder Brother to ask help. Elder Brother pulled a hair from his own lip, cut it into short pieces , and made it into teeth for Soft Child. "If any one bothers you", he said "bite him". That evening Ta-api, Rabbit, came to Soft Child as he had done before and scratched him. Soft Child raised his head and bit rabbit. Rabbit was very angry and scratched him again. Soft Child bit him again. Then Rabbit ran about saying that Soft Child was angry and had bitten him. Then he went to rattlesnake again, and twice more he was bitten. The bites made rabbit very sick. He asked for a bed of cool sea sand. Coyote was sent to the sea for the cool, damp sand. Then Rabbit asked for the shade of bushes that he might feel the cool breeze. But at last Rabbit died. He was the first creature which had died in this new world. Then the people were troubled because they did not know what to do with the body of rabbit. One said, "If we bury him, Coyote will surely dig him up". Another said, "if we hide him, Coyote will surely find him." And another said, "If we put him in a tree, Coyote will surely climb up." So they decided to burn the body of rabbit, and yet there was no fire on Earth. Blue Fly said, "Go to the sun and get some of the fire which he keeps in his house," So Coyote scampered away, but he was sure the people were trying to get rid of him so he kept looking back. Then Blue Fly made the first drill. Taking a stick like an arrow, he twirled it in his hands, letting the lower end rest on a flat stick that lay on the ground. Soon smoke began to rise, and then fire came. The people gathered fuel and began their duty. But Coyote, looking back, saw fire ascending. He turned and ran back as fast as he could go. When the people saw him coming, they formed a ring, but he raced around the circle until he saw two short men standing together. He jumped over them, and seized the heart of the rabbit. But he burned his mouth doing it, and it is black to this day. NEWS: Hanford’s Storybook Set to Open Phase 1 http://www.ourvalleyvoice.com/2017/09/10/hanfords-storybook-set-open-phase-1/ Posted on September 10, 2017 by Nancy Vigran Volunteers have been working with fervor to compete as much as possible of the Children’s Storybook Garden and Farm History Museum Phase 1, prior to its soft opening on September 23. Located at the corner of Harris and Tenth in downtown Hanford, Storybook was the brainstorm of Judy Wait, a retired Hanford teacher. She combined her teaching skills with her love for gardening, and in 2011 with her husband, Larry, took off on a trip to visit children’s gardens around the country. Children’s Storybook Garden and Farm History Museum motivator and director, Judy Wait, shows off Peter Rabbit’s Burrow and Mr. McGregor’s House, just two of the many houses, tunnels, barns and more for children to play in when they visit. Nancy Vigran/Valley Voice Six years later, with some 70-80 regular volunteers and so many in the local community, her fairytale has become a reality, not that she ever doubted it would. “I’m a believer,” she said. “I knew it would happen – it shows how much this was wanted.” The garden and museum have been, and continue to be, developed through a non-profit organization of the same name. The original one-acre property purchase was made possible through a loan – now paid-off through a $200,000 donation through a private donor who wishes to remain nameless. Prior to that a donor-loaner, another private individual, helped ease payments by making them for the organization, allowing funds for progress on the museum and gardens. That donor-loaner has also been repaid in full. The Victorian Burr Home, to become the museum, gift shop and kitchen, was donated by Bill Clark. And, through the donations of so many others including in part, Allen Laird Plumbing, Mike Crain Heating and Air, Randy Mc Nary Construction, Dan Veyna – Sierra Landscape & Design, Zumwalt & Hansen Engineering, Home Depot, Bettencourt Farms, Joe Robinson Concrete and Willie Williams Masonry, Storybook remains debt free. “It’s very grass roots,” said Kate Catalina, a long-term volunteer. “Everything is through volunteers and local support, given with love.” Sponsorships of individual gardens and or building areas have played an important part, as well. Peter Rabbit’s Burrow is covered with sweet potato vine. Entrance to the burrow is obvious, but the exit comes out through the vine. Nancy Vigran/Valley Voice With Phase 1 comes Peter Rabbit’s Burrow, Mr. McGregor’s House, Charlotte’s Dairy Barn, the Woodland Log Cabin and Garden, a Salsa Garden, the Teaching or Kitchen Garden, Nolan’s Critter Creek and Pond, the Topiary Garden, a Pizza Garden, the Three Little Pigs homes and Monet’s House. Each garden will have its own unique features to explore, and a book box holding books representing the inspiration for each, will be placed there for reading. The Teaching Garden will be planted with fall and winter crops by the children in the first field trips. Following groups will help tend to the garden and later harvest, clean and prepare the crops. The Victorian Burr Home is furnished with antiques donated by the community. “We’re trying to set up as in its heyday,” Catalina said. The Tank House, which came along with the Burr House, is also refreshed and will be utilized in teaching water conservation. Storybook is managed and run through its volunteers. However, an educational director and teaching assistant have been hired, each with her own set of experiences. “We were lucky to get these two really special people,” Wait said. “What sold us on them, was that you could just tell they love kids and love gardening, and would love this children’s garden.” Student volunteers are also welcome and encouraged through the Green Teens Club, ages 13-18. They will learn to be docents and readers in the gardens, and will receive community service hours. There is already a 4-H club tending to some of the gardens, as well as members of World Link Volunteer, a foreign-exchange group. Upon completion of Phase 1, Phase 2 will start to come together early next year, with completion of a new bathroom facility. Also in Phase 2 will be the building of the Stone Cottage, the Secret Garden and Celebration Garden. Completion of Phase 2 will allow for Storybook to be available for weddings and other small outdoor gatherings. “I just feel like it is all coming together,” Wait said. “And, it’s beautiful as it is happening.” The Victorian Burr Home, which has become the Storybook Museum, was donated to the project by Bill Clark. Freshly painted and with updated plumbing and electricity, as well as heating and air conditioning, the museum houses various antiques donated by members of the community, and will eventually also house a gift shop. Nancy Vigran/Valley Voice Field trips for many Hanford schools have already been arranged. Any school within the county and beyond, as well as clubs and other groups are welcome to schedule a trip. Storybook will also be open to the public starting with the soft opening. The hours, to start, are Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm. Storybook will be closed on Mondays. Storybook will also feature a variety of special occasions including its first Happily Haunted Halloween Light Show in October. Some type of children’s event and adult event will eventually be held each month including multi-cultural events, Wait said. Sponsorship for areas of the gardens and buildings are still needed. Monetary donations of $50 can be applied to a foot of fencing, or a brick becoming a border on a walkway. Kings County Board of Supervisors Chair Craig Pedersen, who grew up in Kings County, said the board is excited about the project. “A place where children have the opportunity to explore and grow is a good thing,” he said. “Anything we can do to try and help, we’ll do.” For more information and to volunteer or donate, view, www.childrensstorybookgarden.org/ or call, 559-341-4845.   Joe Chianakas Pre-Releases The Final Book In His Famous Rabbit In Red Series http://www.centralillinoisproud.com/news/living-well/joe-chianakas-pre-releases-the-final-book-in-his-famous-rabbit-in-red-series/809144841 WASHINGTON, IL - The Rabbit in Red series continues! Joe Chianakas will soon release the final entry in the internationally acclaimed trilogy. So, prepare to read "Bury The Rabbit." The release date is actually October 28th, but Joe is set to take part in a pre-release celebration in honor of Zeek's Comics & Games 2nd anniversary this weekend. He and Zak Kalina, owner of Zeek's Comics & Games, join us now to tell us all the details. If you can't make it to this pre-release event, don't worry. You can meet Joe at Barnes & Noble on Saturday, October 28th at 1:00 pm.     Rare footage reveals Alice in Wonderland was released as a 52-minute silent movie 100 years ago where she encounters the rabbit, caterpillar and the Queen of Hearts Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4872458/Alice-Wonderland-silent-film-footage-released-1915.html#ixzz4sVHcSBZ1 Rare footage has emerged of a 102-year-old silent film adaptation of Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. The charming clip from the 52-minute retelling of the classic story, released in 1915, shows Alice going down the rabbit hole and meeting familiar characters such as the White Rabbit and the pipe-smoking caterpillar. Alice, played by Viola Savoy, is also seen swinging a flamingo as a mallet in the peculiar croquet scene, and standing as a witness at the trial to investigate who stole the Queen of Hearts' tarts. The scenes make up a silent film released in 1915 by writer and director, WW Young. It is notable for depicting much of the 'Father William' poem that appears in Lewis Carroll's classic 1865 novel. His motion picture was a precursor of a world famous cartoon. These scenes (including Alice and the pipe-smoking caterpillar, pictured) make up a silent film by writer and director, WW Young. It is notable for depicting much of the 'Father William' poem that appears in Lewis Carroll's classic 1865 novel, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland   Girl sews 'Bunnies of Hope' to provide comfort for patients http://www.nbc12.com/story/36307411/girl-sews-bunnies-of-hope-to-provide-comfort-for-patients MECHANICSVILLE, VA (WWBT) - A Mechanicsville woman says her daughter spent the summer hand sewing "Bunnies of Hope." Karen Wharam Schricker says her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in May. Her daughter sewed and donated over 100 bunnies that have encouraging names and scriptures on them. The bunnies were placed in waiting rooms of radiation and oncology units. "She wanted them to have something to hold on to, feel a small bit of comfort, and to know someone cared," said Schricker.   Drones used to target Lincolnshire hare coursers http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-lincolnshire-41171890 Lincolnshire Police's Operation Galileo is also using off-road vehicles to tackle coursers. More than 2,000 calls were made to the county's police during the 2015-16 hare coursing season. Chief Constable Bill Skelly said the introduction of drones would prove useful in gathering evidence to put before the courts. More on this and other local stories from across Lincolnshire Last season, farmers said some areas of the county resembled the "Wild West" after an escalation in the level of violence used by coursers. Mr Skelly said evidence gathered by drones would help "bring about a better result for our rural communities... and the right convictions for the worst offenders". However, Alister Green, from the National Farmers Union, said "the proof will be in the pudding". He said he hoped the use of drones, along with other measures, would help act as a deterrent. Traditionally offenses start to rise in the autumn after crops have been harvested, and continue until the end of the season in spring. Last year, coursers from as far afield as Sussex and North Yorkshire were dealt with by the force. Three arrests Hare coursing has been illegal throughout the UK since 2005. The Hunting Act 2004 makes it an offense to hunt wild mammals with dogs. Lincolnshire Police has previously described the coursers as the "scourge of rural England", and said it was doing everything within its power to deal with those involved. On Tuesday, a vehicle and four dogs were seized, as police made three arrests at Braceby, near Sleaford. The force said the season had started earlier this year due to the early harvest. Hare coursing Since 2005, hare coursing has been illegal throughout the UK. The Hunting Act 2004 makes it an offence to hunt wild mammals with dogs The dogs - usually greyhounds, lurchers or salukis - are on a slip lead, threaded so it can be easily released The coursers will walk along the field to frighten the hare into the open The dog catches the hare and kills it by "ragging" it - shaking the animal in its teeth The dead hare is usually left in the field or thrown in a ditch     Venezuelan president's plan to beat hunger: breed rabbits – and eat them https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/sep/14/venezuela-president-maduro-rabbit-plan Venezuela’s government has urged citizens to see rabbits as more than “cute pets” as it defended a plan to breed and eat them – even as the opposition says this would do nothing to end chronic food shortages. The “rabbit plan” is an effort by the government of Nicolás Maduro to boost food availability. Authorities have also taught citizens to plant food on the roofs and balconies of their homes. Maduro’s adversaries dismiss such ideas as nonsensical, insisting the real problem is a failed model of oil-financed socialism that was unable to survive after crude markets collapsed. Hunger eats away at Venezuela’s soul as its people struggle to survive Read more “There is a cultural problem because we have been taught that rabbits are cute pets,” the urban agriculture minister, Freddy Bernal, said during a televised broadcast with Maduro this week. “A rabbit is not a pet; it’s two and a half kilos of meat that is high in protein, with no cholesterol.“ Maduro’s critics lampooned the idea. “Are you serious?” asked Henrique Capriles, a state governor and two-time opposition presidential candidate in a video to response to Bernal. “You want people to start raising rabbits to solve the problem of hunger in our country?” Rabbit consumption is common in Europe and to lesser extent in the United States. The animals are more efficient than pigs and cattle in converting protein into edible meat, according to the United Nations food and agriculture organization. But raising rabbits in significant quantities in contemporary Venezuela would be difficult. The country’s constant shortages, resulting from stringent price and currency controls, would probably leave the would-be rabbit industry struggling to find materials ranging from feed to metal and wire for breeding cages. Maduro says the country is a victim of an “economic war” led by adversaries and fueled by recent sanctions imposed by the administration of Donald Trump.   Vice president's pet rabbit hops into book deal http://www.cnn.com/2017/09/15/politics/marlon-bundo-book-mike-pence-rabbit/index.html The precocious pet rabbit of the vice president of the United States is hopping into a book deal. Marlon Bundo, the Pence family rabbit with his own Instagram account, announced Friday that he is the star of a new book. "Marlon Bundo's 'A Day in the Life of the Vice President,' " due out March 19, will chronicle the BOTUS' (Bunny of the United States) day alongside "Grampa" Mike Pence. In the book, I follow Grampa around all day, as a BOTUS should, while he goes about his duties as Vice President!" an Instagram post from the first rabbit read. The book was written by the vice president's daughter, Charlotte Pence, with watercolor illustrations by second lady Karen Pence, an award-winning artist. Charlotte Pence adopted Marlon Bundo, named for actor Marlon Brando, for a college filmmaking project. Bundo has since gone viral, appearing at official White House events and frequently posting updates in first person on social media. "Marlon has become a national celebrity!" a press release for the book reads. A portion of the proceeds will benefit A21, an organization focused on combating human trafficking, and two art therapy programs, a key aspect of the second lady's platform. Marlon Bundo lives alongside the vice president and second lady and a veritable menagerie at the Naval Observatory. When the Pences traveled from Indiana to Washington days before the inauguration, they disembarked with cats Pickle and Oreo, plus rabbit Marlon Bundo. In the absence of a pet in the first family, Bundo has become an icon in the rabbit world. Days before the election, the family lost their beloved 13-year-old beloved beagle, Maverick. Less than a year later, cat Oreo joined Maverick in pet heaven. "Rest in peace Oreo. You touched a lot of hearts in your little life," Karen Pence tweeted alongside photos of the black and white cat. "Our family will miss you very much." But Marlon Bundo and Pickle weren't the only pets for long; one week later, the vice president, second lady, and daughter, Charlotte, traveled to their home state of Indiana, where kitten Hazel and Australian shepherd puppy Harley joined the brood. No word yet on whether the bunny will go on a book tour.     Bill would require pet stores to sell rescue animals http://www.mercedsunstar.com/news/state/article173332256.html By KATHLEEN RONAYNE Associated Press California could become the first state to ban the sale of animals from so-called puppy mills or mass breeding operations under legislation sent Thursday to Gov. Jerry Brown by lawmakers. Animal rights groups are cheering the bill by Democratic Assemblyman Patrick O'Donnell to require pet stores to work with animal shelters or rescue operations if they want to sell dogs, cats or rabbit. Thirty-six cities in California, including Sacramento, Los Angeles and San Francisco already have similar bans in place, but no statewide bans exist. ADVERTISING "We've actually seen a thriving pet industry based on the model of getting these from shelters," said Democratic Assemblyman Matt Dababneh of Encino. Brown spokesman Brian Ferguson declined to comment on whether the governor plans to sign it. Private breeders would still be allowed to sell dogs, cats and rabbits directly to individuals. Supporters of the bill say it's aimed at encouraging families and individual buyers to work directly with breeders or to adopt pets in shelters. It also would ensure animals are bred and sold healthily and humanely, supporters said. Few pet stores in California are still selling animals and many already team up with rescue organizations to facilitate adoptions, according to O'Donnell's office. "Californians spend more than $250 million a year to house and euthanize animals in our shelters," O'Donnell said in a statement. "Protecting the pets that make our house a home is an effort that makes us all proud." The bill would also require pet stores to maintain records showing where each dog, cat or rabbit it sells came from and to publicly display that information. A violation of the law would carry a $500 civil fine.   Stone Bridge Preserve: Conservation Project Creates New England Cottontail Habitat https://newtownbee.com/stone-bridge-preserve-conservation-project-creates-new-england-cottontail-habitat/ In light of its goal to provide diversity in natural habitats, the Conservation Commission on September 8 provided the public with a view of the markedly changed landscape at sections of the town’s Stone Bridge Preserve, where extensive recent tree cutting has created habitat suitable for the New England cottontail rabbit to thrive. According to the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP), the New England cottontail is Connecticut’s only native rabbit, and differs from the Eastern cottontail, which is “now the predominant species.” Also, “New England cottontails require large patches of shrubland or young forest, often called thickets, with dense, tangled vegetation.” The New England cottontail has been designated by the US Fish and Wildlife Service as “a candidate for threatened or endangered status,” since 2006. The open space land where the tree cutting occurred lies along Stone Bridge Trail, a narrow dirt road that extends northward from Berkshire Road (Route 34), just south of Nighthawk Lane. The area is adjacent to the Iroquois Gas Transmission System’s cross-country pipeline. The tree cutting in the heavily canopied forest created a young forest and shrublands known as “early successional habitat.” As people toured the rolling terrain where hundreds of mature trees have been cut, they remarked that the tree trunks that lay chockablock across the ground reminded them of the damage that is done by hurricanes. Actually, after loggers cut the trees last winter, they left the tree trunks in piles scattered across the site to deter deer from walking there. The presence of deer damages the new shrubland habitat for the New England cottontail. The habitat that was created also is expected to benefit more than 50 other species. Forester Jeremy Clark, who served as the project manager for the Conservation Commission, provided a tour of the area. Iroquois provided grant funds for a forest management plan that preceded the habitat project. Mr Clark said that some “seed trees” were left standing after the cutting to provide seed for new trees to grow in the area. Lisa Wahle, a biologist who worked on the habitat project, said that the area will be scientifically monitored to gauge the extent to which New England cottontail rabbits have populated the area. Of the habitat project, the Conservation Commission states on its website, “Newtown is committed to providing diverse habitat on appropriate open space properties that will provide, shelter, food, and protection for threatened wildlife that, without intervention, may become extinct.”     © Copyrighted

Alaska Rabbit - News - Rabbit Catches a Duck - Sunflower - Greenhorn This episode: Alaska Rabbit; News; Rabbit catches a Duck; Sunflower; Greenhorn Feel free to visit the website: http://www.hareoftherabbit.com/ If you would like to support the podcast either visit the link for Amazon, then make your purchases as normal.  I cannot see who purchases what, but a small percentage of your purchase will benefit the podcast: https://www.amazon.com/?&tag=haroftherab-20&camp=228761&creative=536025&linkCode=ur1&adid=0Z1J5SZGFHE81DASKT78& Or you can donate to the podcast at: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=4748024 Outline: Today we are going to discuss the Alaska rabbit, some recent news, and we will have another Rabbit folkelore tale. We will also have the plant of the week, as well as the rabbit word of the week.  I would like to thank whoever purchased the items through our Amazon affiliate link on the www.HareoftheRabbit.com website.  I cannot see who purchases what, and there is no additional charge for you, but a small portion of your purchase is sent to support the podcast. Now, the Alaska Rabbit When I first encountered this breed, I guessed that it had been developed in Alaska, based on the name, but in fact, nothing could be further from the truth.  What is also surprising is that the rabbit named after an American state "Alaska", is currently an unrecognised breed in the United States. Despite the name, the Alaska rabbit doesn't come from the cold extremities of North America.  They were actually first developed in Germany and descend from Argente and Himalayan rabbits. We are going to cover the History of the Alaska Rabbit. The Alaska rabbit was created in 1900 by Max Fischer, of Gotha, and Schmidt, of Langensalza. Their Breeding goal was of obtaining a rabbit that looks like the sought-after Alaskan Fox.  The wanted to develop a rabbit breed that would provide another source of fur which would be profitable in the fur trades of that time.  A breeding programme was established in 1900 where they crossed Havanas, Dutch, Himalayans and Champagne d'Argents. The goal was to create a long Jet-black coat with long white guard hairs to mimic the coat of the Alaskan Fox whose pelt commanded a high price in those days, believing they would have a good market for their rabbit pelts.  They found the white guard hairs impossible to produce consistently, and as any good rabbit breeder will know, the genetics rarely go according to plan, so instead of getting a the black rabbit with the long silver hairs, the Alaska rabbit turned out to have an intense black colour and long glossy black guard hairs that gave the rabbit a beautiful sheen, and the rabbit became the rich black coated rabbit  that it is today.   So, they did not achieve their goal, but with the uncommon dense black coat, rich colour shade and unique intensity, they chose to keep the breed they had created and let it remain as it was, rather than keep the breeding process going.   They ended up with the jet black Alaska that is known today.  The first Alaskas were shown in 1907 and rapidly gained recognition across Europe.  The Alaska rabbit was introduced into the UK soon after their development, then became "extinct" until it was re-introduced in the 1970's.  It was known as a ‘Nubian’ in England and was extinct in that country until 1972 when it was reintroduced by Belgium Peter Townson.  By the 1970s, the Alaska had also found its way to Canada by being imported to North America by Bert Reurs of Canada.  It was in the mid-1970's when ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) had acknowledge the Alaskan breed. Their recognition in the United States was sadly short-lived, as the even more popular Havana rabbit came along in the 80s and the Alaska was dropped from the ARBA registry.  In 1981, the Black Havana Rabbit, which is similar in colour and build was introduced, and this saw the Alaska fall out of favour and it was subsequently dropped by the ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) from their list. The breed has yet to make a comeback in the United States, but there are breeders who are hoping the breed will see a resurgence in popularity. We are going to now discuss the charactoristics of the Alaska Rabbit. As we covered before, at some point, the breeders didn't achieve what they intend to create but they were satisfied enough with their different result.  The results of their program did produce the Alaska rabbit which have a completely Jet- black color with a long glossy guard hairs without any mixture of silvering.  The Alaska is instantly recognisable thanks to its striking glossy black fur. The Alaska Rabbit Fur I believe that the most stricking characteristic of the Alaska Rabbit is the Jet Black fur.  The fur of the Alaskan is jet black with the base colour a slate blue and the tips a glossy black. There may be an even dispersion of isolated white hairs.  Long guard hairs are also interspersed throughout the coat.  The belly is black but may not be as shiny as the brilliant body coat. The eyes and toenails are a dark brown.   It is a ‘self’ rabbit and the underside is matt black.  The third gene in the A series is the self gene, which we indicate using the small letter “a”.   Any rabbit that shows a self color has the genotype of “aa,” because it cannot hide agouti or tan pattern under it.  In the show world, “self” means one single color all over, like black, blue, chocolate, and lilac.  When we’re talking genetics, the definition of self is slightly different.  In addition to black, chocolate, blue, and lilac, self colors also include tortoise, Siamese sable, sable point, smoke pearl, and other unrecognized varieties.  Although some genetically self rabbits have some shading, a genetically self rabbit will never have agouti or tan pattern markings.   Nearer the skin the hairs will be a deep slate colour, turning to a vibrant, shiny black towards the tips. A smattering of white hairs are allowed by the breed standard, but any more than that or any white patches or stripes would not be permitted by the standard.  A self or solid-coloured breed, the Alaska rabbit only comes in one colour - black.  The under-colour of the coat, near the skin, is usually a deep slate blue and turns jet black the closer it gets to the surface.   Only glossy black fur, any colour other than black is a fault for this breed.  It is considered a ur breed by British Rabbit Council standards, and only comes in its standard, pitch black color. The Alaska Rabbit Club is the BRC's national specialty club for this breed. The Alaskan rabbit is one of the very few true black rabbits and has a coat that is a jet black colour and dense in thickness. Alaska Rabbit Description Although It is not known exactly how they were created, it is believed that it was a crossing of the Havanas, Dutch, Himalayans and Champagne d'Argent rabbits which  resulted in an animal with the silky, thick fur which is the animal’s trademark.   The Argente is an ancient French breed. They have passed on their erect ear carriage to the Alaskan. They also have very dense, glossy coats like the Alaskan. The Argente has five colours recognised by the British Rabbit Council – Bleu (blue), Brun (brown), Creme (cream), Champagne (silvery) and Noir (black).  They have compact, cobby bodies with short necks and broad, rounded loins. The Himalayan rabbit has been known by many different names and its origins are uncertain. It has a very docile temperament and is popular as a pet. Generally the Himalayan breeds very true to type. Crossings of the Himalayan  and the Argente resulted in the Alaskan which is popular today as both a pet and a show breed. Body The Alaskan rabbit should weigh between 2.7 and 3.9kg (7-9 lb) and is regarded/classed as a medium sized variety.  It is a thick-set rabbit and appears to be without a neck. They have a well-rounded and balanced body with a solid block type and, while not as compact as other breeds, they have good bone development for their size.  The head is broad and carried very close to the body without a distinct neck area.  The head of the doe is generally slightly finer than that of the buck.  Bucks (males) have a little heavier type, while does (females) tend to have more feminine features and are permitted to have a dewlap (a roll of skin at the neck, often giving the appearance that the rabbit's head is resting on a cushion of fur). In show rabbits, a dewlap is allowed providing it is well developed and in proportion to the whole.  The chest is broad and the shoulders and rump well-muscled. The legs are strong and of medium length.   Ears and Eyes The ears are upright and quite short, broad and rounded in comparison to other similar breeds. They are quite broad and rounded at the ends.The ears of the Alaskan are a brown-black colour and are held open and straight. The breed should have dark toenails and dark, bright eyes and should only ever be brown-black eyes to black. The nose and pads of the paws should also be a matt black colour. Temperament/Personality Like many other breeds the Alaska is generally docile and makes a great pet or show animal. Rabbits are generally more active in the morning and at night and an Alaska will be fairly active rabbit.  The Alaska rabbit has a well-tempered behavior and are relatively non-aggressive when compared with other rabbits so they make great pets.  Although they have a rather bubbly, outgoing personality, they are gentle, very loving and will love to spend hours at a time with you! Like any Rabbit, they should be handled carefully only by those who know how to pick rabbits up correctly.  It’s easy to cause spinal problems in rabbits if they are not handled properly.  Plus, if he feels uncomfortable or fearful while being carried he will struggle and may kick out with his very powerful back legs which could cause injury to himself or whoever is holding him. Although a gentle and quite affectionate breed, the Alaska can be skittish.  Having said that, they relish playtime and have lots of energy, so they will appreciate the company of those who can keep up with them.   The Alaska is an intelligent rabbit and can be trained to use a litter tray quite easily so if you’re planning on bringing your rabbit to live indoors he should be shown where he can relieve himself. What is it that makes this breed original? Why choose an Alaska Rabbit? ⦁    The Alaska is instantly recognisable thanks to its striking glossy black fur. ⦁    The Alaska's original purpose is for its fur, helping to reduce the pressure of trapping Alaskan fox.  You could also tan and utilize the fur.. The fur are its greatest value wherein you can tan and utilize the fur either for personal or business interest. ⦁    The breed makes a very flashy pet, with its intense and shiny black coat and dense silky fur.Pet lovers will surely enjoy their comfy black dense silky fur. ⦁    At 7 - 9 pounds, this rabbit can also double as a meat rabbit or a source of raw homemade pet food. Health All rabbits should be vaccinated against myxomatosis and VHD – both of which are potentially fatal conditions that can be spread by infected animals, bedding, utensils or toys.  Annual vaccinations against Viral Haemorrhagic Disease and myxomatosis are recommended.  They should also be treated regularly for fleas, ticks and worms. Rabbits are most active in the morning and at night.  They are more delicate than is generally believed. The basic diet should consist of unlimited fresh hay (which should not be dusty), fresh fruit and vegetables, good quality dry rabbit mix and clean water. They should be housed in a dry, draft-free area.  If kept in a cage, a plastic or wire base should be covered with a suitable bedding such as straw or wood shavings.  Fine sawdust is not suitable as it can cause eye irritations.  They should have sufficient room to exercise himself.  Keep his environment and food and water containers clean and you will have a contented bunny who should have few health problems. Dental hygiene is an essential part of rabbit care.  Their teeth grow continuously and will need the correct diet to keep them worn down. Overgrown teeth can cause lots of problems for your Rabbit, including difficulty eating, and injuries in the mouth that can lead to abscesses.  The best way to combat overgrown molars and enamel spurs is to stop them happening in the first place by providing a diet high in good quality hay and lots of fibrous green vegetables such as cabbage and kale. Gnaw toys also help keep teeth in check. If you suspect a dental issue your vet can carry out an examination and any remedial work necessary. The coat needs a good brush at least once a week, more during periods of  moulting. Additionally, as rabbits’ teeth keep growing throughout their lives, eating the right food will help to keep the teeth properly ground down, but you do need to check, on a frequent basis, that this is happening properly, or your pet may need to have its teeth ground down by the vet. Your rabbit should never be allowed to get overweight.  Excess weight will prevent your pet from looking after himself properly and if he can’t groom then flies may become attracted to soiled areas of fur.  These flies could lay their eggs in the fur and the emerging larvae will bury into your rabbit’s skin causing great discomfort and even infection.  Flystrike can be prevented by keeping your rabbit’s weight down and making sure his fur and his bedding is clean. Caring for your Rabbit: Whether he’s going to be a house or a hutch rabbit, he will need access to a run or a secure area so he can nibble and take in some rays.  Rabbits do love sunbathing, but the should have a shaded area where he can get out of the sun if necessary. If they are going to be a house rabbit he should be introduced to other pets carefully and while he/she still young enough not to be scared.  they should have a place he can go to get away from it all – a dog crate is ideal for this.  They should be provided with a litter tray too and can be trained to use this relatively easily.  Cables, wires, shoes, clothes, important papers and anything else you treasure should be kept out of the way as they will chew whatever they can get his teeth into.  Even a house Rabbit should have the opportunity  to have a good run and explore in a safe place outside. If your pet is going to live in a hutch you should consider getting two animals as rabbits live in colonies of many animals in the wild and do not like to live alone.  This medium sized rabbit needs plenty of space to move around and exercise, and a hutch that is large enough for it to stretch to its full height and length in all directions.  The hutch should be water and windproof and a cover should be placed over the mesh front in the harshest weather. Sawdust makes an excellent substrate and can easily be cleaned out once a week.  Droppings should be removed regularly.  the rabbit should have access to clean, fresh water every day and logs, tubes and toys would be welcome additions to his home.  The hutch should have a covered area where he can build a nest and go for a snooze or get out of the weather. The diet should be carefully planned to help him stay fit and healthy and should consist of good hay, high-quality rabbit pellets and lots of green leaves and vegetables such as cabbage, dandelions and nettles.  Feed a standard rabbit diet to ensure good digestion, avoid obesity and give proper wear on the rabbit’s continually growing teeth. Notes of safety: Please note that, despite their ‘cute’ appearance,  rabbits are not ideal for very small children to handle unless they are closely supervised. Rabbits should be socialised at an early age and young children should be told how to hold a rabbit properly. If any rabbit becomes frightened, its natural reaction is to try and escape, and its powerful back legs can injure the human handler and can cause the rabbit to be dropped and injure itself. As with all pedigree pets, it is very important to obtain a young rabbit or rabbit kit from a reputable source where you can be guaranteed that it has been bred with a view to avoiding any inherent problems found in the breed. Always keep your rabbits safe from dogs and cats who may harm them.  Even where pets ‘get on’, they should be supervised when together and you must ensure that your rabbit is not stressed by being exposed to other family pets or people. Health issues in the Alaska rabbit The Alaska rabbit is a generally healthy breed of rabbit. As with all rabbits, however, check that its bottom is clean of any debris and is kept dry to avoid the danger of flystrike. Teeth and also toe nails should be checked frequently to ensure they are not growing too long. Average lifespan of the Alaska rabbit. 7 – 10 years and sometimes more. Alaska rabbits are non aggressive so would be fine with younger pet lovers who are gentle. This breed is both outgoing and affectionate, soit will be rewarding to interact with.  Nevertheless, these are beautiful, vibrantly colored rabbits, bright-eyed, substantial, and densely furred. Use This is a multi-use breed.  It is mostly a dual purpose rabbit, mainly kept for its fur and meat, although they should also make for a great pet! Intersting Facts! ⦁    There was also a white Alaska however it is now extinct. ⦁    Interestingly, probably because of the thick, dense coat, the Alaska was used in the creation of the Black Rex. Club Recognition? It is recognised by the British Rabbit Council; however it is not recognised by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. Today, The British Rabbit Council continues to raise the profile and status of rabbit breeding. As new breeds were developed during the 1920's, they were standardised and adopted by The Beveren Club until the society had become a general fur breed club. To recognise its new status, it had two name changes, first to the British Fur Rabbit Society and then later to the to The British Rabbit Society. By 1928 the Society had 13 different fur breeds under its jurisdiction.  Today, The British Rabbit Council encourages research into diseases and other topical issues. As the role of the rabbit has developed into a popular pet, the British Rabbit Council actively encourages good rabbit keeping amongst pet owners. The Newark Head Office receives many hundreds of letters or calls each month asking for advice or information on an extremely wide variety of topics concerned with the rabbit. These are not confined to individual people but are sometimes from official bodies, Governments or overseas.  Each year approximately 1000 shows take place throughout Great Britain! Today sees a structure of District Advisors who give their time to help people in their regions. These are well respected members of great experience appointed by the Council to give advice locally. At shows, awards are available from the Council. The basis of these is the Challenge Certificate which is awarded to the best rabbit of its particular group. Breed Status The BRC (British Rabbit Council) had classified the Alaska breed for fur production.  This was due to their jet black dense, silky and lustrous fur. The fur are also glossy and intensely pigmented. In the United States, ARBA no longer recognize this type of breed which means that they can go extinct.  With your help, you can change the future of the Alaskan rabbit breeds by raising them. This will maintain their number that ARBA might consider them on their list once again.   ARBA still does not recognize this breed. Maybe YOU could help change this by raising them and spurring interest in the breed.) Rabbits with such dense and lustrous coats usually tend to win more often than seems fair! http://www.thenaturetrail.com/rabbit-genetics/agouti-tan-self-a-series-otter/ http://scl.io/NA8sTOfi#gs.Ze3R8do News: European rabbits landed in Australia with the First Fleet in 1788. Since then they have multiplied, as the saying goes, and are estimated to cost the nation more than $200 million-a-year in lost agricultural production – not to mention the damage to native species growth, regeneration and biodiversity. The various state primary industry departments hope the new K5 virus strain, a variant of the existing RHDV1 virus released into the environment in 1996, will be more effective as a wild rabbit killer, particularly in cooler climates and among young rabbits, known as kittens.The virus will be released at more than 150 sites in Victoria and owners of pet rabbits, commercial rabbits and rabbit breeders are urged to vaccinate their animals in preparation. "The current calicivirus vaccine, administered by vets, is expected to provide good protection of pet rabbits against all strains of the RHDV1 virus, including the RHDV1 K5 strain," says Victoria's Acting Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Cameron Bell. Other protective measures include: ensuring pet rabbits do not come into contact with wild rabbits, or grass that has been grazed on by wild rabbits; insect-proofing hutches (the virus can be transmitted by fleas, mosquitoes and flies); and disposing of any virus-affected carcasses properly and hygienically. http://www.smh.com.au/national/pet-owners-warned-to-vaccinate-against-rabbitkiller-virus-20170223-guk0z2.html Rabbit on Ahmedabad airport runway almost makes IndiGo, SpiceJet planes collide The pilot of IndiGo flight reported that there was a rabbit on the runway after which he pulled the brakes hard averting a lethal accident. Airport sources told IndiaToday, a major accident which could have claimed lives of many was averted yesterday between two airlines, namely IndiGo and SpiceJet, on Ahemedabad airport runway. After landing the Indigo aircraft, it was moving towards taxiway and the SpiceJet aircraft was ready for take off. Sources inform that the SpiceJet pilot at this juncture saw the IndiGo flight was still on the runway whereas it was supposed to be off the runway by then. ATC Ahmedabad had to intervene. The pilot of IndiGo airlines reported that a rabbit on the runway was spotted just after landing at Ahmedabad airport, due to which the pilot was forced to pull the brakes hard to halt the aircraft. As the IndiGo pilot stopped the aircraft, the nose of the aircraft was still on taxiway and tail of aircraft still on the runway. While SpiceJet pilots maintain in their report that the IndiGo aircraft wasn't cleared off the runway when SpiceJet was ready to take off. Both the pilots reported ATC about the incident. http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/rabbit-ahmedabad-airport-runway-indigo-spicejet/1/891272.html ‘Never Again’ Marks 75th Anniversary of JA Incarceration “Never Again,” a series of speakers, films, and exhibits to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, kicked off at Occidental College on Feb. 12. That’s one week shy of the Feb. 19 anniversary of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s signing of Executive Order 9066 in 1942, which led to the incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans – more than two-thirds of them U.S. citizens – in 10 hastily constructed camps in California and six other states. “What happened to people of Japanese ancestry in our country 75 years ago remains relevant today,” says Julie Kimiko Santos, associate director of international programs at Occidental and series organizer. “Now more than ever it is important to know how and why this tragedy occurred, and the many lessons to be learned.” Bay Area filmmaker Emiko Omori began the series Feb. 12 with a screening of her short film “When Rabbit Left the Moon,” inspired by her own family’s incarceration in Arizona. Omori, who was a toddler when her family was forcibly relocated to Poston, and her older sister Chizu Omori answered questions after the screening. The Vaults at Waterloo - Alice's Adventures Underground Alice’s Adventures Underground – the immersive theatre experience which is returning to The Vaults at Waterloo this April! Audiences will tumble down the rabbit hole and interact with the magical and bizarre characters of Wonderland as they hunt for missing Alice. Audiences choose their own adventure, creating a unique experience with every visit. Meet the White Rabbit, enjoy tea with the Mad Hatter and finish the evening with a cocktail in the Wonderland Bar! The show is unlike anything else in London at the moment and requires a tremendous amount of detail to ensure each audience member is seamlessly immersed in the world of Wonderland. As I’m sure you can imagine, creating Wonderland in the 11 tunnels beneath Waterloo Station is no mean feat either and requires 33 detailed sets, over 65,000 jam tarts and almost 100,000 playing cards! The Wonderland Bar, which is open to visitors to the show and to those just wanting to transport themselves to another world after work, is set to include some bespoke Alice themed cocktails and some delicious food as well. http://www.tntmagazine.com/london/stage/the-vaults-at-waterloo---alices-adventures-underground Tale of 2 Rabbit Hashes: Northside brewery reconsiders name after backlash A brewery in Cincinnati is changing its name before its doors even open after a social media feud boiled over. When Paul Kemp and his father decided to switch from home brewing to opening a true brick and mortar shop, they chose Cincinnati as the location because the environment is more welcoming, Kemp said. When they chose a name, they picked Rabbit Hash, as an homage to the small Boone County, Kentucky town. Rabbit Hash Brewery filed as a limited liability corporation in April 2015. In December 2015 it applied for the trademark for Rabbit Hash Brewery and its logo. The rub? The brewers never talked to the Rabbit Hash Historical Society. The Kemps, who live near Hebron, just miles from Rabbit Hash and are business owners in Burlington, never guessed what would happen when Cincinnati's Northside neighborhood residents got wind of the "misappropriated" brewery name. The brewery is holding a contest to rename the brewey... http://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2017/02/22/tale-two-rabbit-hashes-brewery/98209348/ An anonymous donor has dug deep to help veterinary professionals enhance their rabbit skills by covering the costs of CPD courses aimed at understanding the species’ ailments and treatments.    Retired vet Frances Harcourt-Brown, who runs a range of rabbit-related CPD courses in Yorkshire, contacted vettimes.co.uk to speak of her delight at learning a “very generous lady” – known only as Mrs X – had provided the funds to enable practitioners to attend a number of sessions. https://www.vettimes.co.uk/news/mystery-benefactor-funds-rabbit-course-places/ The creative flair of Teesside chef Michael O’Hare is now on show in Manchester - at an eatery owned by two Manchester United legends. The Eston-born Michelin star chef is the creative director at new ‘space age Asian’ restaurant, The Rabbit in the Moon. Owned by GG Hospitality - a company owned by Ryan Giggs and Gary Neville - the eatery is located on the fifth and sixth floors of the National Football Museum in Manchester’s city centre Urbis building. Among the eclectic dishes on offer are Wagyu truffle nigiri, edible plum stone, duck liver satay, sticky halibut ribs and a Chinese bacon butty. http://www.gazettelive.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/rabbit-moon-creative-flair-eston-12635693  Dogs, people and at least one rabbit strut through Soulard for the annual pet parade     By Tim O’Neil St. Louis Post-Dispatch Feb 19, 2017 (0) Several thousand dog owners dressed up their pooches in Mardi Gras attire for the 24th annual Beggin’ Pet Parade Sunday in the Soulard neighborhood, where excuses for a street party come easy. Lovers of dogs, sunshine and anything Mardi Gras lined the streets five to 10 deep to watch people stroll with dogs in zany costumes.warmup to next Saturday’s big Mardi Gras parade, many of the people present Sunday showed up in their Carnival finest. Marchers tossed beads into the crowds of grasping onlookers.Tracie Quackenbush, director of the Open Door Sanctuary in House Springs, said she was optimistic that Sunday’s turnout would beat the record $20,000 raised by the pet parade two years ago. It has supported the sanctuary since 1994, when the event began with perhaps 300 dogs and was known as the Mystic Krewe of Barkus. As the parade caught on, Purina became sponsor to promote its Beggin’ line of dog snacks. The parade is open to all pets, but dogs rule overwhelmingly. There was hardly a cat in sight. A solitary rabbit rode in a cage on a children’s wagon. Stella Palmer, 12, of Crestwood, brought her pet hen, Speckle, which perched calmly on a milk crate as Stella watched the parade go by on Russell Boulevard. Stella brought her for a simple reason: “I don’t have a dog.” http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/metro/dogs-people-and-at-least-one-rabbit-strut-through-soulard/article_2b63ee4f-0a7d-56cc-962d-643a3b99f3bf.html Dick Bruna, 'spiritual father' of rabbit Miffy, dies at 89 Dick Bruna, the Dutch "spiritual father" of Miffy, the white rabbit who enchanted millions of young children around the world for more than half a century, has died at age 89, his publisher announced Friday.     Bruna "passed away peacefully in his sleep" Thursday night in the central Dutch city of Utrecht, Kerkhof said. The simplicity of Bruna's characters drew adoration not only from children, but also from adult art lovers. Amsterdam's venerable Rijksmuseum put on a show featuring his work in 2015. He wrote and illustrated a total of 124 books, but Miffy, known in the Netherlands as Nijntje, a contraction of the Dutch word for rabbit, was far and away his most popular and best known character. Bruna created 32 books about the rabbit, which were translated into more than 50 languages and sold more than 85 million copies, Kerkhof said. The man his publisher described as Miffy's "spiritual father" stopped drawing in 2011. Miffy, who turns 62 this year, is a merchandising juggernaut, featuring on stationery, toys and children's trinkets sold across the world as part of a multimillion-euro (dollar) business. http://www.chinapost.com.tw/editorial/taiwan-issues/2017/02/19/491880/Dick-Bruna.htm Agri-business getting youth attention By: Emmanuel Ntirenganya     Published: February 18, 2017 Rwanda’s agriculture and livestock sector has long been characterised by an ageing farming population whose average age is 55 years. As a result, innovation, creativity and technology adaptation as well as skills transfer has been slow, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) and agricultural experts. But lately, some youth have embraced the sector and committed to making it more vibrant in its entire supply chain. The Rwanda Youth in Agribusiness Forum was formed in May 2016 to bring together young people engaged in commercial farming in the country. Unlike traditional farming, these youths’ focus is commercial farming. Currently, the organisation has 1,265 members grouped into five clusters namely crop production, livestock production, agro-processing (animal and crops), other agro-services which include packaging, inputs, extension services, mechanissation, among others, and information communication technologies (ICTs) for agriculture. Eric Manirakiza, a rabbit farmer, founded Impano Rabbitry Company. The 26-year-old is a 2014 graduate in ICT programming at the University of Rwanda’s College of Science and Technology. He told Saturday Times on Monday that he started with 100 rabbits in October 2016, and his colony has already grown to about 600 with modern rabbit farming involving proper record-keeping on the rabbitry population and ensuring hygiene and sustainable productivity. The rabbitry has an average birth of 200 rabbits per month. 1487363533manirakiza Manirakiza at his rabbitry in Ruhango District. Manirakiza’s farm has 80 female rabbits divided into two units of 40 each, he said. An adult rabbit at his farm gives birth to at least five baby rabbits, he said, and its gestation period (conception to birth delivery) is 30 days. It also breastfeeds its off-springs for 30 days after which the off-springs are weaned and the mother rabbit made to mate again. The rabbits are sheltered in plastic-covered metallic sheds which let their liquid and solid waste out freely, leaving them well aerated. After paying farm costs and salaries for his 11 employees, he earns about Rwf700,000 per month from his business. Manirakiza said that his rabbits typically weigh about five kilogrammes at five months and are sold at Rwf8,000 each. Rabbit meat costs Rwf3,000 a kilogramme at the local market and about Rwf6,000 per kg when exported, he said. His farm, located in Ruhango Sector of Ruhango District in Southern Province, was one hectare at inception but has since grown to five hectares so he can grow enough grass to feed the rabbits. Manirakiza said that his rabbitry has an ICT system which helps him keep records for his livestock and analyses the database looking at things like when should the rabbits give birth, when should the young ones mate. “It’s like a calendar alert application in a telephone. We enter data into it and it gives us notification, for instance, when there are two days remaining for the rabbits to mate,” he said. His priority is good rabbit hygiene, because he wants to begin selling rabbits to restaurants soon. Hotels in Rwanda are currently reluctant to put rabbit on their menus because there is an unreliable supply of the meat and it is sometimes unhygienic, he said. Once he starts to get 1,300 kg a month, he will begin selling to hotels, he said. Consumers in Belgium and South Africa have asked him to supply 2 to 15 tonnes of meat per week, but his current production falls far short of such demand. “Rabbit meat is healthy; it is high in protein and very low in fat, almost zero. In countries like Kenya, rabbits are on high demand,” he said, adding that he wants to work with other youth to help meet the demand and create more jobs. Manirakiza also plans to make manure compost from the liquid waste generated from his farm, currently, they produce about 10 jerry cans (about 200 litres) of liquid waste per day and trials have shown that such manure has very high soil fertilising properties, he said. http://www.newtimes.co.rw/section/article/2017-02-18/208129/ I will tell you of how The Rabbit Goes Duck Hunting from the Cherokee People. http://www.ilhawaii.net/~stony/1097lore.html The Rabbit Goes Duck Hunting     The Rabbit was so boastful that he would claim to do what- ever he saw anyone else do, and so tricky that he could usually make the other animals believe it all. Once he pretended that he could swim in the water and eat fish just as the Otter did, and when the others told him to prove it he fixed up a plan so that the Otter himself was deceived.     Soon afterward they met again and the Otter said, "I eat ducks sometimes." Said the Rabbit, "Well, I eat ducks too." The Otter challenged him to try it; so they went up along the river until they saw several ducks in the water and managed to get near without being seen. The Rabbit told the Otter to go first. The Otter never hesitated, but dived from the bank and swam under water until he reached the ducks, when he pulled one down without being noticed by the others, and came back in the same way.     While the Otter had been under the water the Rabbit had peeled some bark from a sapling and made himself a noose. "Now," he said, "Just watch me;" and he dived in and swam a little way under the water until he was nearly choking and had to come up to the top to breathe. He went under again and came up again a little nearer to the ducks. He took another breath and dived under, and this time he came up among the ducks and threw the noose over the head of one and caught it. The duck struggled hard and finally spread its wings and flew up from the water with the Rabbit hanging on to the noose.     It flew on and on until at last the Rabbit could not hold on any longer, but had to let go and drop. As it happened, he fell into a tall, hollow sycamore stump without any hole at the bottom to get out from and there he stayed until he was so hungry that he had to eat his own fur, as the rabbit does ever since when he is starving. After several days, when he was very weak with hunger, he heard children playing outside around the trees. He began to sing:     Cut a door and look at me;     I'm the prettiest thing you ever did see.     The children ran home and told their father, who came and began to cut a hole in the tree. As he chopped away the Rabbit inside kept singing, "Cut it larger, so you can see me better; I"m so pretty." They made the hole larger, and then the Rabbit told them to stand back so that they could take a good look as he came out. They stood away back, and the Rabbit watched his chance and jumped out and got away. Sunflower Greenhorn