UK Rabbit Herbie Breaks Record at 15, Double Life Span

A spirited rabbit named Herbie just made history by living long enough to see his 15th birthday, more than double what most lionhead rabbits achieve.

Guinness World Records officially recognized Herbie as the oldest living rabbit at 15 years and 82 days on November 10, 2025. Most lionhead rabbits live between seven and 10 years, making his longevity remarkable.

Richard and Melissa Dunham brought Herbie home to Surrey when he was just eight weeks old in 2010. The teachers had been rescuing rabbits and needed a companion for their rabbit Flopsy after her partner Starsky passed away.

Herbie had been waiting in a pet shop for months before finding his forever home. Flopsy loved him immediately, and the two bonded quickly, staying devoted to each other for a decade.

His personality is as outsized as his lifespan. Melissa describes him as "particularly alpha and very bossy," with an independent streak that keeps the household entertaining.

One of Herbie's favorite games involves running away from Richard, then stopping and waiting to be chased again. He loves performing "binkies," the twisting jumps rabbits do when they're happy, especially dramatic head binkies that make his owners laugh.

Over his 15 years, Herbie has had three rabbit wives. After Flopsy, he bonded with Tinks following her husband Bertie's death at age 10, and now shares his life with six-year-old Betty.

He forms strong bonds with humans too, particularly with Richard. Herbie loves cuddling on the sofa or soaking up sunshine in the garden, and he'll even groom his owners affectionately.

Sunny's Take

The Dunhams never expected their rescue rabbit to become a world record holder. "He is an amazing little bunny," Melissa said. "His spirit is as strong as his determination, and for such a small chap his personality is huge."

Herbie's story reminds us that the smallest family members can bring the biggest joy, and that love, care, and a little bit of luck can create extraordinary outcomes even in ordinary lives.