The following terms refer primarily to the Jersey Wooly breed of rabbit, though many of the terms are used with all breeds.

GROUPS:  A broader classification than varieties, usually applied to color patterns.  In Jersey Woolies there are five groups:  (NOTE:  this is only a quick, incomplete sketch of the descriptions as outlined by the ARBA.  For complete and correct details and information see the Standard of Perfection, published by the ARBA)

SELF:  a solid-colored rabbit (black, blue- or ruby-eyed white, blue, chocolate, lilac)

SHADED:  A main color other than white, with darker shading on the face, ears, legs, feet and tail.  (blue tortoise shell, tortoise shell, sable point, seal, siamese sable, smoke pearl)  

TAN:  a main color other than white, with white outlining nostrils, eyes, jowls and inside of ears.  White on belly, inside of legs, and under-side of tail.  A “triangle” area behind the ears is white (except in otters, where it is orange or fawn).  “Ticking” along sides, flank, rump.  (blue and black otter; sable or smoke pearl marten, and black, blue, chocolate or lilac silver marten)

AGOUTI:  Three distinct bands (“rings”) of color can be seen when you blow into the fur.  White markings the same as the Tan pattern, above.  Must have “ear lacing” (colored band of fur outlining sides and tips of the ears).  (chestnut, opal, chinchilla, squirrel)

AOV:  Stands for “Any Other Variety”.  Presently consists of Pointed Whites only.  Pointed Whites have white as the main color, with black or blue markings on the nose, ears, feet and tail.