What does the term "summer ears" refer to?

The term "summer ears" refers specifically to the phenomenon where a rabbit's ears become longer due to the warmer temperatures experienced during the summer months. Rabbits regulate their body temperature partly through their ears, which are equipped with blood vessels that can dilate to help dissipate heat. When the weather is hot, these adaptations can lead to an increase in ear length as part of the rabbit’s physiological response to help manage temperature effectively.

Lengthening of the ears can also be a result of the rabbit's breed characteristics, which may be more pronounced in the warmer months as the animal grows and develops. Understanding this term is crucial for those involved in rabbit showmanship, as it contributes to recognizing the differences in rabbit care and management during varying temperatures and the potential effects on breed standards.