A Surrey rabbit named Herbie has secured a place in the Guinness World Records after being confirmed as the world’s oldest living rabbit.
The lionhead rabbit reached the remarkable milestone of 15 years and 251 days as of today, more than doubling the typical lifespan for his breed.
Lionhead rabbits generally live between seven and ten years, making Herbie’s longevity particularly extraordinary.
Herbie resides with his devoted owners Richard and Melissa Dunham, a couple who both work as teachers and have been caring for rabbits since 2010.
Melissa expressed astonishment at his achievement, saying: “He is an amazing little bunny. His spirit is as strong as his determination, and for such a small chap his personality is huge.”
The couple have also taken in numerous rescue animals over the years.
When they first brought Herbie home, he was merely eight weeks old and had spent a couple of months living in a pet shop.
He was originally introduced to the household as a companion for a female rabbit called Flopsy, whose previous partner Starsky had passed away.
The lionhead rabbit surpassed the remarkable milestone of 15 years old
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GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS
“Flopsy loved him and they bonded quickly, and were devoted to each other for 10 years,” Melissa explained.
Herbie possesses a notably dominant and commanding temperament, according to the couple.
Melissa added: “Herbie is particularly alpha and is very bossy. He is incredibly independent and loves my husband to chase him.”
The rabbit developed a favourite game in his younger days, deliberately darting away from Richard before pausing to wait for pursuit, orchestrating the entire activity himself.
His signature move involves performing head binkies – a twisting, kicking jump that rabbits execute when feeling joyful – which would leave him appearing tremendously pleased with himself afterwards.
Though he has traditionally preferred male company, Herbie has mellowed somewhat with age.
Throughout his years with the Dunhams, Herbie has been partnered with three different rabbit wives.
Though he has traditionally preferred male company, Herbie has mellowed somewhat with age
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GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS
Following his decade-long bond with Flopsy, he formed a connection with Tinks after her own life mate Bertie died at the age of ten.
He is currently paired with Betty, a six-year-old rabbit.
When it comes to human relationships, Herbie shares a particularly close connection with Richard, though he enjoys cuddling with both owners on the sofa or basking in the garden sunshine.
The affectionate rabbit even grooms his human companions, demonstrating the depth of his bond with the couple who have cared for him since he was just weeks old.