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In a recent collaboration, Everbreed has partnered with Buckingham Rabbitry, a dedicated TAMUK breeder, to craft an in-depth exploration of TAMUK rabbits. This distinctive breed has piqued the interest of beginning meat rabbit breeders, offering an array of exceptional characteristics that make it an optimal choice for homesteaders. This guide delves into the historical roots, distinctive traits, and unique features of TAMUK and TAMUK Composite rabbits.
Agouti TAMUK Composite Doe – Photo courtesy of Buckingham Rabbitry.
History
TAMUK Rabbits trace their origins to the Texas Agricultural Extension Center at Texas A&M University – Kingsville. Here, Dr. Steven D. Lukefahr, a retired Regents Professor of the Department of Animal and Wildlife Sciences, spearheaded their development during the mid-1980s. Driven by the ambition to create the ultimate breed for sustaining his own family, he embarked on a crossbreeding journey involving commercial lines from Arkansas, Florida, and Louisiana.
The initial offspring predominantly comprised ruby-eyed white (REW) New Zealand, paving the way for the emergence of the TAMUK Composite breed. This composite breed seamlessly integrated seven existing breeds, such as red and white New Zealand, Siamese Satin, Californian, Dutch, Champagne d’Argent, Harlequin, and Havana. The selection criteria were meticulous, focusing on traits like growth rate, meat-to-bone ratio, and maturity age. Hybridizing these breeds endowed TAMUK rabbits with a unique vigor, propelling them to excel in overall performance and a captivating array of colors.
TAMUK Recognition
It’s important to note that TAMUK and TAMUK Composites, despite their exceptional qualities, remain unrecognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA). This lack of recognition renders them ineligible for participation in ARBA-sponsored shows. Consequently, breeders primarily focus on their utility for meat production and the sale of breeding rabbits to other producers.
More About Buckingham Rabbitry
To enrich our exploration, we engaged in a dialogue with Buckingham Rabbitry, an Everbreed user actively involved in breeding TAMUK and TAMUK Composite rabbits. Situated in the vicinity of Knoxville, Tennessee, Buckingham Rabbitry stands out as one of the few TAMUK rabbit breeders in East Tennessee. Beyond their expertise in TAMUK and TAMUK Composites, the rabbitry also breeds pedigreed New Zealand rabbits, emphasizing responsible breeding practices for both personal consumption and sales.
If you would like to reach out to Buckingham Rabbitry you can email them at buckinghamrabbitry@yahoo.com
Photo courtesy of Buckingham Rabbitry
Traits and Characteristics of TAMUK Rabbits
As we delve deeper into the fascinating world of TAMUK rabbits, it becomes evident that their traits and characteristics are a testament to the thoughtful breeding practices and meticulous selection criteria employed in their development.
Temperament
TAMUK rabbits are renowned for their docile and friendly nature, making them an ideal addition to family homesteads. Unlike some rabbit breeds that may be skittish or aloof, TAMUK rabbits are approachable and suitable for households with children. This affable temperament aligns seamlessly with Dr. Lukefahr’s vision of creating a rabbit breed that not only excels in practicality but also complements the lifestyle of families. Their gentle disposition makes them not only easy to care for but also enjoyable companions for all members of the household.
Maternal Instinct
A standout feature of TAMUK rabbits is their robust maternal instinct. This trait has been carefully cultivated to ensure the well-being of offspring, with a particular focus on high litter size and exceptional milk production. The breed’s ability to nurture a substantial number of kits underscores its suitability for those looking to raise rabbits for both meat production and future breeding purposes. The strong maternal instinct not only contributes to the overall health of the offspring but also makes the breeding process more efficient and reliable for homesteaders.
Meat and Hide/Pelt Production
TAMUK rabbits excel in meat production, showcasing an impressive meat-to-bone ratio that rivals or surpasses other rabbit breeds. This characteristic aligns with the breed’s primary purpose—providing a sustainable source of high-quality meat for homesteaders. The efficiency of meat production not only makes TAMUK rabbits an economic choice but also positions them as a valuable asset for those seeking self-sufficiency in meat provision.
It’s worth noting that while the skins of TAMUK rabbits are not recommended for traditional hide or pelt use due to their thin nature, some producers have successfully tanned the multicolored skins. However, tanning may pose challenges, emphasizing the breed’s primary focus on meat production rather than secondary by-products.
Adaptability
TAMUK rabbits exhibit a remarkable level of adaptability. While initially bred with a focus on thriving in hot and humid climates, these rabbits have proven resilient in diverse environmental conditions. Despite having thinner skins, they showcase a surprising ability to handle colder climates without compromising their overall well-being. This adaptability adds another layer of versatility to TAMUK rabbits, making them suitable for a range of geographical locations and climates.
TAMUK Rabbit Kits – Photo courtesy of Buckingham Rabbitry
Conclusion
In summation, TAMUK rabbits emerge as a formidable choice for individuals seeking meat rabbits resilient to the challenges of heat and humidity. Their appealing temperament, fortified maternal instincts, and exceptional meat-producing qualities position them as an invaluable addition to homesteads, promising not only a sustainable source of meat but also a delightful and amiable presence on the family farm.
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