(CLAIR | Moorpark, CA) — At Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark, you can pet a donkey named Chocolat, feed a goat, pick your own strawberries—and meet one of the world’s largest breeds of rabbit lounging under a mister like a VIP on vacation.
The farm’s Animal Center is a favorite destination for families across Ventura County, especially in spring when the fields are bursting with fresh fruit and the barnyard animals are out in full charm mode. But few critters capture hearts quite like the Flemish Giant rabbits—gentle, oversized fluffballs who get full-on spa treatment on warm days.
The farm is home to several of these gentle giants, a breed known for its enormous size and sweet personality. Most Flemish Giants weigh between 15 and 22 pounds, but some can top 30. The biggest on record reached 50 pounds and stretched over four feet long. With thick fur and heavy frames, they’re especially prone to overheating.
“They’re calm, they’re sweet, but they’re fragile when it gets hot,” said one caretaker at the farm. “We check on them constantly. If they show any signs of distress, we act fast.”
The farm rotates frozen water bottles into their enclosures during warmer days. The rabbits lean against them or rest their paws on the bottles to cool down. Misting systems provide a light spray in shaded spots, and staff offer chilled fruit—mostly watermelon and berries—for hydration in a form they’ll happily munch.
The Flemish Giants aren’t just a seasonal draw—they’re part of the farm’s character. One of the oldest recognized domestic rabbit breeds, they likely originated in northern Belgium several centuries ago. Originally raised for fur and meat, today they’re better known as mellow companions and gentle show animals—especially popular in 4-H programs and county fairs.
“They’re known as ‘gentle giants’ for a reason,” said the caretaker. “They don’t mind people. They like to be petted. But you still have to treat them with care.”
Flemish Giants grow fast. By 18 months, most have reached full adult size. Bucks tend to be heavier with broad heads. Does usually develop a dewlap—a thick fold of skin under the chin used to keep baby rabbits warm. Litters can range from five to twelve bunnies.
They also require a lot of space. A full-grown Flemish needs at least a 3-by-4-foot enclosure, and they can easily jump three feet high. The farm’s enclosures are roomy, with solid flooring to prevent sore hocks, a common issue when rabbits are kept on wire grates.
Like all rabbits, Flemish Giants have teeth that never stop growing. They need hay daily to help wear them down, along with a mix of pellets and fresh greens. Water is essential, especially in warmer weather. Dehydration can lead to digestive shutdown, which can be deadly.
At Underwood, staff are trained to spot signs of GI stasis, heatstroke, and other health issues common to the breed. They also keep watch for signs of mites, which Flemish Giants are more prone to due to their thick coats.
“We don’t just show them off. We take care of them,” the farm worker said. “They’re part of the farm family.”
Visitors from Simi Valley and all over Ventura County stop by to see them. Kids press their faces to the fence. Adults pull out their phones for photos.
But the rabbits seem to take it all in stride—lounging under the misters, nibbling fruit, and leaning lazily against their frozen bottles.
“They don’t do much when it’s warm,” the caretaker laughed. “But they’re still the stars of the show.”
And there’s more to see beyond the rabbits. Underwood Family Farms’ Animal Center is home to a lively cast of characters, including goats, alpacas, chickens, cows, pigs, emus—and Chocolat, a regular-sized donkey with a mellow attitude and a name as sweet as his demeanor. Visitors can explore barnyard-style exhibits, watch animal feedings, and get up close through hands-on encounters in the petting zoo.
Families are also invited to pick their own fruits and vegetables in the adjacent fields. Depending on the season, that could mean strawberries, blueberries, peaches, tomatoes, or sweet corn—fresh from the vine and straight to your basket.
Spring is a particularly festive time to visit. Underwood’s Easter on the Farm celebration includes tractor-drawn wagon rides, an Easter Bunny meet-and-greet, and an Easter egg hunt in the hay pyramid. It’s a perfect outing for families looking to mix holiday fun with a taste of farm life.
Underwood Family Farms is located at 3370 Sunset Valley Road in Moorpark. The Animal Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $14 on weekdays and $20 on weekends and holidays. Seasonal events and activities may have additional fees.
For current event schedules, crop availability, and tickets, visit underwoodfamilyfarms.com or call (805) 529-3690.
Whether you’re petting a goat, snapping photos of a sunbathing bunny, or picking a basket full of berries, Underwood offers a chance to slow down and connect with farm life—furry friends and all.
