What is the defining characteristic of the Agouti color pattern in rabbits?

The defining characteristic of the Agouti color pattern in rabbits is indeed a hair shaft that has three or more bands of color with breaks between. This banding creates a unique and varied appearance, as each individual hair exhibits different wavelengths that contribute to the overall coat color. The presence of multiple bands typically includes darker colors at the base, then lighter shades, and often culminates in a darker tip, resulting in a rich and complex coloration throughout the fur.

This characteristic can be observed in several breeds and marks a stark contrast to solid color coats, which lack the dimensionality provided by banded hairs. Understanding this characteristic is crucial when identifying and categorizing rabbit colors, especially in a fair or show setting.