26o 



OUR DOMESTIC ANIMALS 



A Blue Beveren Rabbit (Male) 



vast numbers in the villages of 

 France, and it is this breed that 

 in the Paris markets. It is 

 very prolific and is able to 

 bear privations. It is raised 

 almost exclusively as an arti- 

 cle of food. 



The black-and-ta)i i-abbits 

 are the result of the cross- 

 ing of various species mingled 

 with wild blood, which can be 

 perceived at first sight. It is 

 by far the shyest and least 

 tamable of its tribe ; if any 

 one goes near its hutch it 

 will burrow into the clarl^est 

 corner. Although its appear- 

 ance is certainly sullen, and 

 e\'en savage, its body is ab- 

 solutely beautiful. Its fur, of 



the north of 

 s chiefly sold 



a brilliant black and very thick, is fine for 

 cloaks and pelisses ; it is white on the belly, 

 under the jaw, about the ears, and on the 

 tips of its paws. The same species in steel- 

 blue is also extremely handsome and goes 

 by the name of bliie-and-tan. Both breeds 

 originated in England, whence they were 

 imported into France, and later into other 

 countries. To have the handsomest young 

 rabbits it is well to cross the blue and the 

 black, and vice versa. A litter, usually of 

 from four to six, will contain both colors. 

 The Havana rabbit, so named from its brown, 

 or chocolate, color, is of very recent date. The 



A Polish Rakkit 



A 1!la(k-axt>Tan Rabbit 



first time it was exhibited it bore the 

 name of the English flame-eyed rab- 

 bit; next it was called the Beveren, re- 

 ceiving finally from the Netherlands 

 Association the name Havana. 

 Though of recent date, it is already 

 well known. The finest are found in 

 Holland, although France has also a 

 species which has received the same 

 name. Its fur secures to it a great 

 future, and there is no doubt that it 

 will soon spread throughout Europe. 

 It is easy to raise, and the young are 

 all like their parents. Its admirers 

 increase after every show at which 

 it makes its appearance. 



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