Rabbit Color Calculator

Rabbit coat color is controlled by several interacting genes. This calculator focuses on two widely used loci that distinguish four base colors: the B locus for black versus chocolate pigment and the D locus for dense versus dilute color. At the B locus, B is dominant and produces black-based pigment, while two b alleles produce chocolate-based pigment. At the D locus, D allows dense pigmentation, while two d alleles dilute the color. Combining these rules gives black for a B-present and D-present genotype, chocolate for bb with D present, blue for B present with dd, and lilac for bbdd. Each parent contributes one allele from each locus. The calculator enumerates all sixteen combinations formed by the two B alleles and two D alleles from each parent, classifies the resulting phenotype, and converts counts to percentages. A parent written Bb or Dd is a carrier of the recessive alternative and can pass either allele. A rabbit written BB or DD cannot pass the corresponding recessive allele, while bb or dd always passes it. The percentages are probabilities for each kit, not guaranteed litter counts. Visible rabbit color involves much more than these two loci. The extension locus can allow or restrict pigment distribution, the agouti locus changes banding patterns, the color locus affects pigment production, and additional genes control spotting, silvering, wide-band effects, intensity, and other traits. Epistasis can hide what the B and D loci would otherwise produce. Consequently, this tool predicts base-color categories only and should not be treated as a complete breed-color identifier. Reliable predictions require known genotypes. A black rabbit's appearance alone cannot distinguish BB from Bb or DD from Dd, because recessive alleles may be hidden. Pedigrees, previous litters, test crosses, or genetic testing can help identify carrier status. Run multiple plausible genotype combinations when a parent's genotype is uncertain. Use the results for education and breeding-plan comparison while considering animal health, genetic diversity, temperament, and welfare before coat color. Breed standards may also use color names differently, so verify terminology with the relevant rabbit association.