DID YOU KNOW?

Ears on rabbits have two functions, besides giving a distinguishing characteristic to some breeds.

1. Collect and direct sound waves to the inner ear
   where they may be interpreted by the brain.
2. Assist in maintaining the body temperature at about 102.5˚ F. In the ears there are various blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. As the air moves
   across the ear, heat is carried away from the body.

 

THINK ABOUT IT...

Can you name at least 3 breeds that have lopped ear carriage?

 

 

 

4. Ear Carriage
Rabbits carry their ears in various positions depending on the breed. The manner in which the ear is carried depends upon the shape, strength and position of the cartilage at the base of the ears. The 3 basic ear carriages are:

1. Erect carriage: This is where the ears are carried
   in an erect position. Many recognized breeds carry
   their ears in this position. They are not necessarily
   carried close together or touching. Some breeds
   mandate that the ears are close together and
   touch from the bottom tothe top (Polish).
   
   
   
2. Lopped ear carriage: This is a very distinct type
   of ear carriage where the ears fall to either side
   of the head.
   
   
   
   
3. "V" shaped ear carriage: The ears are set close
   together at the base (close to the head) and
   spread apart in a "close" or wide "V" shape.
   Those breeds that are required to carry their
   ears in a "V" are: Beveren, Harlequin, Hotot, and Rhinelander.