Herbie breaks record to become oldest living rabbit

A bunny called Herbie has been officially recognised as the oldest living rabbit in the world.

Melissa and Richard Dunham adopted the lionhead at eight weeks old, but he has now taken the Guinness World Record at the age of 15 years and 246 days as of Wednesday.

Herbie scooped the record after reaching nearly twice the life expectancy of lionhead rabbits, which usually live between seven and 10 years.

Melissa, from Dorking in Surrey, said: "He is an amazing little bunny. His spirit is as strong as his determination, and for such a small chap his personality is huge."

Herbie had been living in a pet shop before Melissa and Richard took him home, with the couple taking him in as a mate for their female rabbit Flopsy.

After living with Flopsy for 10 years, he later bonded with female rabbits Tinks and Betty.

Melissa said Herbie had a strong bond with Richard and loved to be chased when he was younger.

Herbie still has some way to go before becoming the oldest rabbit ever - an Australian rabbit called Flopsy reached 18 years and 10 months.

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