Rich in forests, flora and fauna, Mount Abu is like an oasis in the barren desert cape of Rajasthan. The altitude of 1220 meters, and abundant vegetation has endowed Abu with a pleasant climate. It has a unique ecosystem with the presence of rare, endangered and endemic flora and fauna.

Under the unique canopy of Mount Abu are nurtured now, ANGORA RABBIT producing BRAND ABU, an indigenous brand of Angora fur. ANGORA RABBIT are a variety of domestic rabbit bred for its long soft hair. Angora is one of the oldest types of domestic rabbit, originating in Ankora, Turkey.

To cater to the needs of the deprived and less privileged, a society called Abu Agro Products Co-operative Society Ltd. initiated an operation in 2006. Its main objective was providing organized livelihood to 500 natives of Mount Abu, thus opening gateway for foreign exchange. The organization aims at rearing the German Angora Rabbit for wool and spins the collected wool into Angora yarn by using the traditional looms. The augmentation and encouragement of the German Angora rabbit is necessitated by the fact that there are approximately 50,000 of them in India with an annual turn over of approx 40 tons.

Angora wool is known for its softness, low micron count (i.e. thin fibers), and what knitters refer to as a halo (fluffiness). It is also known for its silky texture and contains a higher percentage of pure wool and better insulation than sheep wool. Rabbits are unique because they do not possess the same allergy-causing qualities as many other animals. An average rabbit can live for about 5-7 years when kept indoors and well cared for.

Angoras have a humorous appearance as they oddly resemble a fur ball. Most are calm and docile but should be handled carefully. Most of the time they are shorn in summer as the long fur can cause the rabbit to over heat. They are active, playful and social. They enjoy the attention of owner as well as the companionship of other rabbits.

Written By:
RUKHSANA SAIFEE