The Havana is a medium-sized [[Rabbits|rabbit]] breed originally developed in the Netherlands, named for its rich, dark brown color that resembles the shade of a Havana cigar. The breed is kept for both fur and meat and is known for its dense, glossy coat and calm temperament. Havanas are a compact, well-balanced breed with a distinctive rich color that has been extended into several additional recognized varieties.
The Havana breed originated in the Netherlands in 1898 with the birth of a single brown doe in the town of Ingen, Utrecht. This doe, born to a litter of Dutch rabbits, was the foundation of the breed. Her owner, C. H. V. H. van Veen, recognized the uniqueness of the color and began selectively breeding the brown rabbit. The breed was named "Havana" for the color's resemblance to fine Havana cigars.
Havanas were imported to England in 1907 and to the United States in 1917. The breed was recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association in 1918. The original color was the deep, rich Havana brown, but additional varieties have since been developed: black, blue, chocolate, and lilac. The Havana is classified as a heritage breed by the Livestock Conservancy.
Havana rabbits are medium-sized with a compact, well-rounded body. Mature weight is 4.5 to 6.5 pounds (2.0 to 3.0 kilograms). The body is short and cobby with good depth and width. The coat is short, dense, and glossy with a distinct luster, particularly in the brown variety. The head is medium-length with a slightly curved profile. The ears are thick, well-furred, and carried erect.
Havanas are known for their calm, docile temperament. They are easy to handle and are well-suited to homestead rabbitries. Does are good mothers with adequate milk production. Litter sizes are typically 5 to 7 kits.
Havanas are kept for meat and fur on homesteads. The dense, glossy fur is prized for garment making and craft use, and the brown variety's rich color is particularly valued. The breed's moderate body size produces a useful meat yield, though the compact body has a slightly lower dressing percentage than longer-bodied meat breeds.
The breed's calm temperament makes it a good choice for beginning rabbit keepers and for homesteaders who handle their animals frequently. Havanas are less common than the New Zealand and Californian but are well regarded for their dual-purpose capabilities.