After the “Giant of Flanders”, a new breed of rabbit has been introduced by those involved in rabbit breeding, or cuniculture, in Madagascar.
This is a breed called “Giant Butterfly” that comes from France. It is descended from various breeds of European variegated rabbits and is characterized by a white coat with colored ears and eye contours, as well as a dorsal stripe, spots on the hips and a characteristic spot on the nose in the shape of a butterfly. This new breed attracted many visitors at an exhibition organized as part of the fair entitled “Rodorodon’ny Tantsaha” held recently at the Antaninarenina Garden. “He’s so cute. He looks like a panda!”some visitors testified. “A one-month-old “Giant Papillon” rabbit costs 200,000 Ar”said Herilala Daniela Razafimandimby, the manager of the Avaradrano Farm specializing in rabbit breeding.
Pet
In addition to its white coat and distinctive spots, its ears measure between 16 and 19 cm and are carried upright. “We have four colours of ‘Giant Butterfly’: blue, black, solid and black, and finally solid and blue. It is part of a large breed that can weigh between 6 and 8 kg at six months of age. In Madagascar, households that decide to tame it consider it more as a pet, because rabbits are generally gentle and affectionate, just like the Flemish Giants which are more intelligent rabbits.”he said.
1 500 euros
Speaking of rabbit breeding, this breed “Giant Butterfly” can reproduce at the end of its growth. The does can each produce 6 to 8 litters per year of about 8 rabbits per litter. The gestation lasts only one month. These livestock are easy to feed, as they only need water, vegetables, leaves and hay. Feeds based on cereals such as corn and sorghum are also being developed. Rabbit farming is also feasible in the city, since imported feeds are already available locally. There is therefore no need to look for hay. On the other hand, the introduction of new breeds of rabbits in the country is an obstacle for those involved in this profitable sector. Indeed, the cost of importing a pair of “Giant Papillon” is around 1,500 euros. We are therefore calling for state support for this type of breeding.”mentioned by Herilala Daniela Razafimandimby.
Rabbit meat
In addition, rabbit farming stakeholders are considering creating a platform to regularly supply rabbit meat to the local market. “Indeed, the consumption of rabbit meat has not yet become part of the Malagasy people’s eating habits, due to the lack of availability in butchers, while this livestock product provides many health benefits. For example, the consumption of rabbit meat prevents cardiovascular diseases, reduces cholesterol levels, improves the immune system, treats circulation problems, strengthens bones and teeth, promotes growth and slows down cellular aging. It also contributes to the proper development of the fetus, helps keep the line and shape while facilitating healing.”he concluded.
Navalona R
The post Rabbit farming: A “Giant Papillon” rabbit for 200,000 Ar first appeared on Midi Madagasikara.
The article Rabbit farming: A “Giant Butterfly” rabbit for 200,000 Ar appeared first on Midi Madagasikara.