40 PRACTICAL RABBIT KEEPING 

 The Blue Imperial 



This is an English breed, for which a wo- 

 man, Miss Mabel Illingworth, stood spon- 

 sor. Although the color might be called 

 maltese by some, it produces a decidedly blu- 

 ish effect. It must be an even color all over 

 the rabbit. The fur is rather longer than on 

 most breeds, and is fine and soft. The eyes 

 are deep blue. This rabbit should weigh 

 about seven pounds, and be fairly long and 

 lithe. Blue Imperials are not difficult to raise, 

 and require no special attention. 



The Tans 



Still another class for which English breed- 

 ers must have the credit is the Black and Tan. 

 About all that can be said as to their origin, 

 though, is that they are known, to have come 

 f roin England. The number in this country is 

 not large at present. The black Tans were the 

 first to be introduced; the blues came from 

 them. All the Tans are easy to raise, and 

 should weigh from three to four and a half 

 pounds. They are considered best for show 

 purposes before the end of the first year. 



