Animal Science

Adams County 4-H Rabbit Projects

The 4-H Rabbit Project teaches youth to care for and evaluate rabbits while developing responsibility, goal setting, and record-keeping skills. Beginners learn about breeds, anatomy, and care. Intermediate participants study rabbit nutrition, disease prevention, and exhibition skills. Advanced participants develop leadership abilities and explore career opportunities.

There are two types of rabbit projects:

  1. Market Rabbit
  2. Breeding/Show Rabbit
    • Note: “Breeding” does not mean mating/reproducing in 4-H, it means the rabbit is a specific, known breed.
Download Rabbit tipsheet
View State 4-H Project Info
Closeup of a rabbit

Project Info and Requirements

  • We recommend you buy or borrow a copy of the Rabbit Resource Handbook
  • Also consider reading the General Rules, Livestock, Equine & Small Animal Rules, and 4-H Rabbits sections of the Fair Premium Book
  • Interested in being a judge? Consider joining the Rabbit Judging Team!

Exhibition Requirements

Rabbit project members who intend to exhibit their animal(s) at the Adams County Fair must
complete the following:

  • Enroll in the Rabbit Project in 4-H Online
  • Complete and submit an Animal Care and Housing Form to the 4-H office by May 1
  • Identify all rabbits in 4-H Online by May 1 (Meat doe ID due April 1)
    • Required in 4-H Online:
      • Tattoo number (if your rabbit is not tattooed yet, enter “000”)
      • Breed and sex
      • Animal name and birthdate
    • Optional in 4-H Online:
      • Photo
      • Tag number
      • Color and markings
      • Sire/dam info
      • Weight
  • Attend the Meat Quality Assurance (MQA) training once per year and pass the MQA test
  • Keep record of your rabbit project in the Livestock Record Book available for download on the Colorado 4-H website
  • Get your rabbits tattooed either at our county clinic or elsewhere
  • Present an up-to-date Livestock Animal Record Book (also called e-record) with a green record book cover at Record Book Interviews
  • Enter fair classes on the Fair Entry website by July 1
  • Complete and turn in the Livestock Record Book with a green cover and any necessary supplements for breeding rabbits by Friday before Labor Day to the Extension Office.

Learning Opportunities

Rabbit Workshops are held several times a year at the Fairgrounds.

View Upcoming Events

Subscribe to the Adams County Fourcast Newsletter for the latest 4-H project and event updates.