Scientific name: Oryctologus cuniculus Domesticated? Yes Place of Origin: France Description: The Nutria Rex is among the most prized of all Rex fur colorings (closely
followed by the Black Rex). It's shining golden topcoat is combined
with an undercoat of pearl grey. The result is absolutely stunning, as the
Nutria just seems to literally radiate and shimmer. It is a Rex in every
way, from the typical velvety 'Rex fur' (caused by the under fur
being just as long as the guard hairs, and it stands up straight instead of
lying flat against the body), to it's docile, friendly nature, to the
8 to 10 pound frame, and to the very tips of their straight proportionate
ears. Population status: Rare Facts: The 'mutation' of a Rex's fur was once considered an
unacceptable genetic 'defect' that randomly showed up from
time-to-time in new litters of meat rabbits. Before being formally tested
and then classified as an official breed by Desire Callion in France in the
early 1900's, the Rex was just stamped as a useless, tasteless,
defective runt and then 'disposed of'. Today, the Rex is an
extremely popular and very much loved pet and show rabbit mainly because of
that very same genetically unique, soft, velvety fur and numerous color
varieties.
The Nutria Rex has had a more difficult time of it as its golden coat was
much coveted in the fur trade. Since the popularity of the fur industry has
since fallen, the Nutria Rex has all but become extinct. Still,
occasionally, one will be born in from a 'mutation' in a litter
of Havana Rex rabbits. Reference Links: |
