The Parsons?

[Rupert]

Hi folks, just a very quick question while I think about it - does anyone know why the little all-black wild rabbits are called 'the Parson's' and why is it supposed to be unlucky to shoot them?

[snock]

I've tried a search, but it came up with no real results.
I must say i've never heard of this saying....but will follow this thread.

Pete.

[Whippet.22]

Well I'd imagine they're called Parson's because they are all black like a vicar's (parson's) robes. Probably considered unlucky to shoot them due to their link with god or summat, although if you're an atheist then feel free to shoot.

Edit: It's probably just a saying local to Ruperts area, although I may be wrong.

[Rupert]

Yeah, I know, that's what I thought, but I heard them called that in Gloucestershire, where I shoot, then again in Buckinghamshire where my pal has a shoot. I mentioned it to my Father in Suffolk, and he knew black rabbits as 'Parsons' and so does my mate in Essex?

Strange huh!

[Deano1]

Not sure about the parson bit, but I was told that game keepers used to put a certain amount of many black rabbits into the wild population and would keep count of the black ones, if any went missing they would know that they had a poacher problem, that would probably explain the bad luck bit,well it would if you were the poacher, thats why the poachers would leave the black rabbits.

(Awaiting correction)

[snock]

No Deano1, you are correct.

Very artfull our old poachers were. They had to be, the gamekeepers were as clever too.

Pete.

[Rupert]

A-ha!

I feel I need to slap my forehead at this point before doffing my cap the the clever old game-keepers of yesterday!

Many thanks