Animal Science
Boulder County 4-H Rabbit Project
Designed to help members gain knowledge and skills in managing and caring for rabbits. Beginners learn about rabbit breeds, anatomy, basic care, and giving demonstrations. Intermediate members study nutrition, disease prevention, breed selection, and exhibit rabbits. Advanced participants address current issues in rabbit raising, developing leadership, exploring career opportunities, and building lasting friendships.
There are three types of rabbit projects:
- Market Rabbit
- Breeding Rabbit
- Companion Rabbit
2025-2026 Rabbit Project Schedule
| Saturday, 12/6 | ARBA Show: 8 AM – 4 PM Boulder County Fairgrounds – Barn A |
| Saturday, 1/3 | Rabbit Workshop: 10 AM – Noon Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
| Saturday, 1/17 | ARBA Show: 8 AM – 4 PM Adams County Fairgrounds – Brighton |
| Saturday, 2/7 | Rabbit Workshop: 10 AM – Noon Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
| Saturday, 2/14 | ARBA Show: 8 AM – 4 PM Boulder County Fairgrounds – Barn A |
| Saturday, 3/7 | Rabbit Workshop: 10 AM – Noon Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
| Saturday, 4/4 | Rabbit Workshop: 10 AM – Noon Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
| Saturday, 5/8 | Rabbit Workshop: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
| Saturday, 6/12 | Rabbit Workshop: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
| Saturday, 7/10 | Rabbit Workshop: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM Clover Club Room – Boulder County Fairgrounds |
Project Information
Boulder County offers three 4-H rabbit projects:
Market Rabbit Project
Are you interested in raising and showcasing meat rabbits? Our Market Rabbit Project is tailored for youth who want to learn the ropes of raising a pen of three rabbits destined for the fair at 69 days of age or younger. Additionally, participants have the option to exhibit a single meat-type rabbit in either the roaster or stewer classes.
Breeding Rabbit Project
For those passionate about raising rabbits for purebred breeding stock or high-quality commercial show purposes, the Breeding Rabbit Project is an ideal choice. While breeding is not mandatory, it is a fantastic opportunity for youth to delve into the intricacies of rabbit husbandry. Rabbits in this project should closely align with the types and breeds of the ARBA pedigree, although registration is not a requirement.
Companion Rabbit Project
If you’re a youth who treasures the companionship of pet-quality rabbits and envisions them as beloved family members, the Companion Rabbit Project is for you. Participants in this project own one or more spayed or neutered rabbits, with no aspirations for raising show, breeding, or commercial market rabbits.
Record Books & e-Records
Visit the 4-H State Website to access manuals and e-record book links.
4-H Record Books are also called e-Records. Each project has its own record book that members are required to complete each year. Record books have a few times to be checked on progress throughout the year:
- In June, your 4-H leader will be sure your books are started and up to date.
- Prior to showing at the Boulder County Fair, your record books will be checked by your superintendent to be sure they are up to date and complete as can be in order to participate and show at the fair.
- Final livestock record books are due to be received at the Extension office by the second Thursday in September. (Please note: your 4-H leader may need an earlier deadline for review and signatures.)
View more resources and materials on the Colorado 4-H website.
Related Events
Currently there are no upcoming events scheduled. Please check back for the latest events as they are scheduled.
Contact the Rabbit Project Team
We are ready to help and support you in your 4-H livestock journey.
Boulder County Fair Rabbit
Project Superintendent
Boulder County Specialist CSU Extension
4-H Youth Development Livestock & Animals