Rabbit Coat Color Genetics

The following items were produced by a livestock specialist and her undergraduate student. Together, these resources provide a good understanding of how genes work together to display different combinations of rabbit coat color and patterning. Rabbits are bred for 4-H projects, hobby farms, as personal pets, and for other uses such as meat and fiber production.

Understanding the genetics behind rabbit coat colors: Part 1 — introduction

Rabbits are bred for 4-H projects, hobby farms, as personal pets and for other uses. Yet, information about coat color genetics is either too technical or not easy to access. Here's a basic guide to coat color genetics.

Jenifer Cruickshank, Molly Stern | Feb 2022 | Article

Understanding the genetics behind rabbit coat colors: Part 2 — coat color genes

The appearance of a rabbit's coat is determined by genes that control color base, color density, pattern, extension of dark pigment, spotting and silvering. Learn more about each gene and how they work together.

Molly Stern, Jenifer Cruickshank | Apr 2022 | Article

Understanding the genetics behind rabbit coat colors: Part 3 — your rabbit

By looking at a rabbit's coat, you can determine its genotype. Here's a guide to coloring and patterning and what they say about a rabbit's genes.

Jenifer Cruickshank, Molly Stern | Apr 2022 | Article

Understanding the genetics behind rabbit coat colors: Part 4 - review and practice (in English)

Use this interactive, web-based resource to learn even more about coat color genetics! Two lessons provide the learner an opportunity to practice determining genotypes and 'investigate' what a rabbit might look like if it had a certain, given genotype. Full-color photographs enhance the experience, and mini quizzes help to reinforce the topics. This resource was developed to be mobile device friendly and accessible.

Molly Stern, Jessica Green, Jenifer Cruickshank | Apr 2022 | Online resource