A student has genetically engineered the world’s largest rabbits.
Andrés Yakin used Flemish Giants – currently the world’s largest type of domestic bunny – which have medium-sized ears.
He has bred them with a domestic rabbit with longer ears.
The result was a huge rabbit with longer ears and a shinier coat than typical Flemish Giants.
Due to their size, Flemish Giants can be compared to small breeds of dogs and are considered practical pets as they are more docile than normal-sized domestic rabbits.
Andrés, 23, started his genetic project while studying zoology and veterinary science at the Meritorious Autonomous University of Puebla in Mexico.
He said: “This species from Flanders is the largest in Mexico and around the world.
“They are only bred in Mexico, New Zealand and California, places where work is carried out to breed them quickly so they have more meat on their body.”
He explained that he set up a genetics project at university two years ago.
The average Flemish Giant weighs between 15 and 22 lbs.
Andrés’ rabbits – which don’t have a name – are slightly heavier at 20 to 23 lbs although he is trying to increase their size even more.
Using genetics alone, he believes he can make the rabbits grow to as much as 30 lbs in weight.
Andrés, who comes from the city of Huachinango, has been breeding rabbits for several years.
He said Flemish Giants make good pets because they do not hop around and are more patient when being handled.
Last week, Andrés appeared on the Mexican morning TV show ‘Venga la alegría’ with several of his giant rabbits.
Footage of Andrés’ appearance was shared on the show’s social media pages, showing the presenters interacting with the giant rabbits.
One viewer commented: “I saw them in person and they are very beautiful. They are huge.”
Pam said: “Beautiful creatures, it also made me want to hug them like that. Hahaha.”
Marily wrote: “Wow, how cute and huge!”
Patty remarked: “How beautiful. I would love to touch one.”
