When do lop ears lop?

Question
I have been looking on this forum for an answer to my question, but can't seem to find anything.  I'm sure you've answered questions about this subject before.  I have a Lop.  She is about 8 pounds.  I also have 2 rabbits that are possible dwarfs.  When we got them one ear was up and one ear was down.  Now, both of them are drooping both ears.  I was wondering if they could be lops too, or if they are maybe mimicking their big sister?  Ocassionally one ear will stand up, but the right ear on both of them has never stood up.  They are very young...probably just 3 1/2 to 4 months old.  Their disposition is nothing like Isabellas.  They are a little more high strung.  Any information you can give me about ears would be very helpful.  Thanks!!

Answer
Dear Stephanie,

Purebred lop rabbits usually lop their ears down much earlier than this--from 8 to 11 weeks of age.  But if only one parent was a lop, all bets are off.  The trait is controlled by several genes, so if they have mixed lop heritage, they could have variable expression of the trait.  Some part lops have both ears lopped only halfway down, some at an angle, and some lop only one ear (unicorn bunny!).  You just never know.

Another thing to consider is ear mites or ear infection if neither bunny is even part lop.  If they are shaking their heads or kicking at their ears, they may need to be treated for mites.  You can read more here:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/furloss.html

And find a good vet to help you here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

Hope this helps.

Dana