Years ago Dr. Ed Lowe raised New Zealand rabbits and expanded it to include Mini-Lops. The NZ were a large breed averaging about 10 pounds and the Mini-Lops averaged about 6 pounds. Acquiring a small herd of NZ rabbits supplied meat for the family in a rural farming context. However, The Mini-Lops were bred to be sold as pets. They were ideal companions and the herd yielded many silver variations. Also he built and sold rabbit hutches and "condos."
But 20 years ago the family settled in Florida and a few years ago rekindled (pun intended) the passion to raise rabbits. Only this time the business plan was to raise rare Silver Fox rabbits. Why? Because they are a beautiful breed with fur that uniquely stands up and has silver tips on their collar and back. Also because the Silver Fox breed is the gentlest and most docile of the 52 domestic breeds. There is a common nick-name for them: The "Teddy Bears" of rabbits! Silver Fox rabbits are a rare bred and it was necessary to travel to Arkansas to acquire the original breeding stock. Within the first year 10 litters were kindled and the young bunnies are becoming very popular as pets throughout Florida.
Here is a brief chronology of how the rabbitry developed:
WARREN ONE: ChainLink High-Rise
An old dog run chain link fence was deployed for the security of the herd. It is 12’ long x 7’ wide x 6’ high. The rabbitry is a two-tier design with three across so there are six large hutches. Fence wire (2” x 4”) was used to close off the top for protection against predators. In our area there are raccoons, hawks, ospreys, eagles, snakes, bobcats, gators, boars, feral cats and dogs, coyotes, and bears. Maybe others too. It was a tough build but looks great with refurbished wood. Careful consideration was given to assure this warren was protected from the hot Florida sun. It was built in the midst of a cluster of trees for that purpose. The hutches are flexible to be used for breeders or grow-outs.
WARREN TWO: Mini-Barn
A mini-barn was constructed years ago from 8’ x 6’ wood fencing taken when a couple of lots were acquired adjacent to the property. The original yard fence was broken down and the wood was re-used to build a 4’ fence with wire. Extra sections were used to build the mini-barn. Actually, it's just a big shed (16’ x 8’), but a reasonable roof with tresses was put up. The rabbitry requires food storage so the mini-barn was adapted to hold hay and pellets. Also, eight hutches were incorporated into the space with windows and good ventilation. Electricity was run to the barn for fans and heaters. It is perfectly located in the woods for protection from the elements.
WARREN THREE: Lake-Front Condos
A 12’ x 8’ structure was raised to accommodate storage for food, cages, hutches, and supplies. Incorporated on the east side are 6 hutches for breeding and grow-out enclosures. Facing east allows the rabbits to enjoy early sun and the water in the ravine below. But most of the day they are protected under the shade of the forest.
WARREN FOUR: North-Side Cabins
Formerly an 8’ x 10’ shed, this warren is not in the woods so a shade sail was installed to keep the sun away from the asphalt roof. Eleven windows and 7 vents were installed for airflow and to allow light into the enclosure. The shed is totally enclosed and six custom hutches were built and installed. The Northside Cabins are used for grow-outs and the primary location for HAREbnb to provide a boarding service for rabbits.
NEXT - BUILT BY THE END OF 2024:
WARREN FIVE: The Medusa Barn
Under development at this time to accommodate for 24 up to 32 large hutch units designed for producing does and bunny litters. Also the design will allow space for supplies, hay, carriers, etc. NOTE: all hutches will also be ultra-protected to stop predators..
BREEDS: Rabbits USA now carries four different breeds:
* Silver Fox
* Standard Rex
*Mini-Rex
* Mini Plush Lops (The harlequin-colored bunny on the home page is our buck!)
Every warren:
- Has a sophisticated automatic watering system with a five-gallon tank mounted in a high location to allow a gravity-fed supply of fresh water. This provides water tubes and drinking nipples to 26 hutch units.
- Is kept in shade under trees or sun sails to deflect the hot sun.
- Can be secured at night from predators with fencing or gates.
- Has electricity and water for fans, sinks, hoses, etc.
Welcome to
Rabbits USA!
At Rabbits USA, our mission is to raise pure bred bunnies as the best pets ever. Also we help homesteading families get started with their own rabbitries.
Here's what we do:
Raise Healthy Bunnies
We specialize in raising healthy, happy bunnies that make perfect emotional support companions. Our bunnies are bred and cared for with the utmost attention to their health and well-being.
Equip People to Properly Care for Their Bunny
We provide comprehensive guidance and resources to ensure new bunny owners can properly care for their furry friends. From diet and habitat to grooming and health care, we cover it.
Educate on Rabbit Husbandry & Cuniculture
Our educational programs are designed to teach children and young people the fundamentals of rabbit husbandry and cuniculture. We believe in fostering a love for animals and imparting valuable knowledge about rabbit care.
Assist Aspiring Rabbit Raisers
For those interested in raising their own bunnies, we offer expert assistance and support. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your rabbitry, we’re here to help.
Build Hutches, Cages, & Enclosures
We create custom hutches, cages, and enclosures to provide safe and comfortable living spaces for your bunnies. Our designs prioritize the safety and comfort of your pets.
Partner with Rabbit Lovers
We partner with fellow rabbit enthusiasts to share knowledge and promote the welfare of rabbits. Our community of rabbit lovers is dedicated to the care and appreciation of these wonderful animals.
