Altmarkschau 2025: Rabbit diversity promotes breed preservation!

Altmarkschau 2025: Rabbit diversity promotes breed preservation!

The Altmarkschau took place in Fleetmark on October 25, 2025, a real highlight for breeders and animal lovers. This event gave 41 breeders the opportunity to present 250 rabbits in 35 different breeds and colors. Exhibition director Klaus Ihrke made it clear how important such events are for the breeding community - they not only provide information about breeding and husbandry, but also support the urgently needed blood refreshment of the breeds. This has a positive effect, especially for endangered livestock breeds, as a current overview of the Red List shows, which states that around 60% of native breeds in Germany are endangered.

The Altmarkschau rewarded the best breeders with honors in various categories. Matthias Hauf from Angern was awarded Altmark Champion with 32 out of 23 possible points for his achievements. Other award winners include Burkhard and Brigitte Witzel from Fleetmark (Kleinsilber) as well as Paul Gebhardt and Bernd Meinecke with their impressive rabbits. Particularly noteworthy are the Witzel couple, who have been breeding rabbits since 1962 and have specialized in the small silver light breed for the last 12 years. Their passion for rabbit breeding is evident and they are already planning to take part in the 34th state association show. The awards are just as important to them as the joy of this hobby, which they are happy to pass on.

Promotion of endangered breeds

The event is not only a celebration for breeders, but also an important step towards the preservation of ancient breeds. Rabbits are particularly highlighted on the 2025 Red List, which lists 30 breeds, nine of which are considered endangered. Causes such as industrial agriculture, market pressure and a decline in active breeders are affecting many of these breeds. It is becoming increasingly clear that maintaining genetic diversity not only benefits breeding, but also food security and ecosystem services. The Altmarkschau actively contributes to raising awareness and making the population aware of what is at stake.

There was also a junior section: five young breeders proudly presented 13 of their animals. This future of breeding is essential to ensuring a diverse and healthy animal population in the years to come. The passionate breeding community shows that a lot can be achieved with commitment and knowledge.

According to the Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE), it is becoming increasingly clear that we need to protect our old farm animal breeds. The preservation of such species is not only a concern for breeders, but also an important social issue. More consumer support is needed - be it through purchasing local products or supporting projects that work to preserve these breeds. At the same time, education is a key resource to raise awareness of this important aspect of agriculture in future generations.

A look at the Red List shows how urgently there is a need for action. Populations are often critical, particularly when it comes to rabbits, sheep and poultry. But there is also positive news: some breeds are receiving cautious encouragement by being placed in less vulnerable categories. It remains to be hoped that the enthusiasm for breeding and preserving these animals will continue to be very popular, and that events such as the Altmarkschau will make a significant contribution to this.

For all animal lovers, breeders and those interested, the Altmarkschau is not just an exhibition, but a sign that tradition and breeding will continue to have their place in our society in the future. So, come to these events and spread the enthusiasm for rabbit breeding!