Ankara Zoo Successfully Preserves the Rare Angora Rabbit Breed

Ankara Zoo Helps Preserve the Rare Angora Rabbit Breed

The Atatürk Forest Farm Zoo in Ankara continues its successful conservation program for the famous Angora rabbit, one of Türkiye's most iconic native animal breeds.

Originating in Ankara and later becoming known around the world, Angora rabbits are considered one of the oldest domestic rabbit breeds and are renowned for their exceptionally soft, long wool.

The zoo has created a dedicated enclosure where visitors can observe the rabbits up close, making them one of the park's most popular attractions, especially among children.

From Three Rabbits to Nearly Fifty

According to veterinarian İbrahim Duman from Ankara Metropolitan Municipality's Veterinary Services Department, the conservation project began with just two female rabbits and one male.

After carefully developing the right breeding conditions, nutrition program, and vitamin balance, the population has grown steadily.

"We started with only three rabbits. Thanks to proper care, breeding management and nutrition, the population has increased to nearly 50 animals," Duman said.

The breeding program has significantly strengthened the local population of this historic Turkish breed.

A Valuable Part of Türkiye's Heritage

Angora rabbits are best known for their luxurious wool, which has been prized for centuries and remains widely used in the textile industry to produce warm, lightweight clothing.

Today, China is the world's largest producer of Angora wool, although the breed continues to be raised in several European countries and in Türkiye.

The rabbits are carefully groomed and periodically sheared under veterinary supervision to ensure their health and well-being before the wool is processed.

The conservation program not only protects one of Türkiye's most recognizable native breeds but also helps preserve an important part of the country's agricultural and cultural heritage.