Angora

The Angora Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is a breed known for its long, soft fur. Its origins are uncertain but are thought to be in the Carpathian Mountains, the Black Sea, or Ankara. Some sources suggest it may have originated in the UK. The Romans domesticated it around 100 BC, using its fur, hair, and meat. In 1500, during Henry VIII’s reign, its export was banned due to its high value. The fur’s softness and insulating properties come from its cell structure, absorbing up to 38% of its weight in water. It is widely used in textiles, with China as the leading producer.