Giant Angora
The largest of the ARBA Angoras, a big, wool-producing rabbit developed in the United States.
Origin
The Giant Angora was developed in the United States by Louise Walsh, who wanted a large Angora that would produce plenty of wool for the commercial market. She built it from German Angora stock, crossed with larger breeds for size. It was first presented to ARBA in Houston in 1985 as the "Commercial Angora (German Type)". In 1987 the ARBA Standards Committee suggested the simpler name Giant Angora, and the breed passed its third presentation, becoming officially recognized, at the 1988 ARBA Convention in Madison, Wisconsin.
Typical Adult Size
The largest of ARBA’s four Angora breeds, with minimum weights instead of a maximum: senior bucks must weigh at least 9½ pounds and senior does at least 10 pounds (about 4.3 and 4.5 kg). It is also the only Angora shown in six classes, with an intermediate class for rabbits six to eight months old.
Coat Type
A very dense coat of wool made up of three fiber types: soft, gently waved underwool, which should dominate; stronger, wavy "awn fluff"; and straight, strong guard hairs (awn hair), which must be present and visible above the wool.
Colors
The national Angora club lists two show colors: ruby-eyed white and chestnut. The ruby-eyed white is the classic Giant.
Temperament
Usually described as calm and docile, a good thing in a rabbit that needs so much regular handling. Many Giants settle well into a steady grooming and shearing routine.
Grooming and Care
A serious commitment. The Giant does not molt the way most rabbits do, so its wool has to be shorn, usually every few months, and kept free of mats between harvests. Wool around the face, ears and rear needs regular attention, and a diet rich in hay and fresh water helps protect a wool breed against swallowed fiber.
Distinctive Features
A large, commercial-type body under a dense blanket of wool, an oval head that is broad across the forehead, noticeable forehead tufts and cheek furnishings (heavier in bucks than does), and ears that are lightly fringed and well tasseled.
What Makes It Notable
The Giant was bred above all as a wool producer, and its standard reflects that: most of the show points go to the wool’s density, texture and length. A single Giant can yield a remarkable amount of fiber for hand-spinners.