Income diversification is important for every serious farmer. My study, combined with consultations with rabbitry experts, revealed several opportunities worth considering before starting rabbit production. Diversification matters.

Rabbit meat is lean and relatively low in cholesterol, making it a protein choice. This nutritional advantage can create opportunities among health-conscious consumers and families. Health matters.

Rabbit production can begin with modest capital compared with many livestock enterprises. Their 28-day gestation period also supports frequent reproduction and potentially faster herd expansion. Reproduction matters.

Pregnancy can be checked through palpation around 11 to 14 days after mating. Three or four days before kindling, provide nesting box for delivery. Preparation matters.

Rabbits require pelletised feed, hay, and appropriate forages. Farmers should establish medication and health schedules while properly understanding the needs of weaners, growers, and adults. Management matters.

Rabbits can reach maturity at approximately six months. Clean housing is essential, while their valuable urine and droppings can support crop production as organic fertilizer. Waste matters.

Abdullah Opeyemi Akande
B.Agric. (FUNAAB)
GAS (NIAS)
M.Sc. Animal Sci. (UI)
RAS (NIAS)
M.Sc. Int’l Business (UU, UK)
Ph.D. in view