Jersey Wooly rabbits are popular for many who want a smaller rabbit but like the wool of the angora. First introduced at the 1984 American Rabbit Breeders Association convention it became an officially recognized breed four years later thanks to Bonnie Seeley of New Jersey and other breeders who envisioned a small rabbit with a distinct look. In 2004 broken (spotted) Jersey Woolies were added as a recognized variety.
Today the Jersey Wooly is one of the most popular breeds with breeders numbering 700 from around the world in the breed club. The JW is popular for many reasons besides their beautiful coats.
A rainbow of colors is available within the breed. the agouti section includes chestnut, chinchilla, opal and squirrel colors; self or solid colors include black, blue, chocolate, lilac, ruby eyed white (REW) and blue eyed white (BEW) while the shaded colors include sable point, smoke pearl, Siamese sable, blue tort, tortoiseshell and seal. Additionally there is the otter and martin patterns that include black otter blue otter, silver marten, blue silver marten, lilac silver marten, chocolate silver marten, sable marten and smoke pearl marten as well as an any other variety’ section that includes black pointed whites and blue pointed whites, similar to the “Californian” pattern.
With this many colors one can expect there are plenty of opportunities to show! At the 2008 ARBA national convention show there were 25 agouti senior bucks and 28 senior does. This is one age of one color section!
Of course even in breeding the best to the best sometimes it doesn’t result in a show bunny and these make wonderful pets. At about 3 pounds their normally friendly temperament mean they don’t take up a great deal of room, don’t eat as much as the large breeds and are easy to get along with. Even if you don’t wish to show and are happy with your pet rabbit it can be a benefit to browse the breed site for tips and tricks for keeping your rabbit healthy and happy.
Additionally for $15 you can join ARBA. You do not have to be a breeder and do not have to show to benefit from this organization. There is a wonderful rabbit care book that comes with your membership as well as a magazine. Both of these have a great deal of information not just for show and breeding people but pet owners too.
The Jersey Wooly is a small rabbit that does take a little time to groom regularly due to the long wool. While they are low maintenance this is an important time factor to consider for the health and comfort of your rabbit.
