Choose breeds suited to your climate

Select breeds known to tolerate your local climate extremes. In hot climates, Mediterranean chicken breeds (Leghorn, Minorca), Nigerian Dwarf goats, and Californian rabbits handle heat better. In cold climates, Chantecler and Wyandotte chickens, LaMancha goats, and Rex rabbits are more cold-hardy.

Why It Works

Animals stressed by climate extremes produce less, get sick more often, and may die. Rabbits are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke above 85°F (29°C). Cold-hardy breeds have features like smaller combs, thicker coats, or better fat distribution that help them cope.

Tips

• Even climate-appropriate breeds need adequate shelter, shade, ventilation, and fresh water
• Check USDA Plant Hardiness Zone maps to understand your local climate extremes