What does a lopped ear indicate in a rabbit?

A lopped ear in a rabbit indicates an ear that is pendulous, meaning it hangs down instead of standing upright. This trait is characteristic of certain rabbit breeds, such as the Holland Lop and the English Lop, which have been bred for this specific ear structure. The physical appearance of a lopped ear can affect the overall look of the rabbit and often contributes to the breed’s specific standards in competitions and exhibitions. This unique trait is part of what distinguishes these breeds from others with erect ears.

In contrast, an erect ear would refer to rabbits with ears that stand straight up, while a broken ear typically describes an injury or deformity rather than a breed characteristic. An ear that is longer than usual can also refer to certain breeds, but it does not specifically relate to the term "lopped." Understanding these distinctions is crucial for proper breed identification and care in rabbit husbandry.