A behemoth bull bagged the title of the world's tallest living water buffalo - even towering over farm workers who care for him.

The three-year-old male animal, aptly named King Kong, was awarded the Guinness World Record as he grew to a massive 6.1ft (185cm) when measured from the hoof to the withers.

Photos show the mammoth buffalo looming over locals visiting him at his home at the Ninlanee Farm in Nakhon Ratchasima, northeast Thailand. He is around 50 centimetres (20 inches) taller than the average water buffalo.

Farm owner Suchart Booncharoen said he had named the enormous bovine after the iconic giant movie ape for his massive size at birth.

King Kong's carer Cherpatt Wutti added: 'We began to realise that he was very tall from when he was born, compared to other water buffalo. It was clear from early on that his height was extraordinary. He is only three years old, but despite his young age he's still very massive.'

Despite his imposing build, King Kong was described as a gentle giant who is fond of humans.

Cherpatt said: ‘He is very obedient. He loves to play around, he loves to be scratched and run around with people. He is really friendly and it's like having a big, powerful puppy on the farm.'

King Kong's caretakers said he lives a life of luxury and leisure, with his day divided between grazing, lounging, sunbathing, playing, showering and interacting with visitors.

At 6 am, the water buffalo is usually released to splash around at a nearby pond. He is then bathed before being served a king-sized breakfast of 80 lbs of hay, corn, and bananas.

He is allowed to roam freely on the farm throughout the day. When night falls, he is then bathed and fed a second time before being returned to his enclosure.

Water buffalo have played a significant role in Thailand's agriculture, especially in rice farming, where they have been used for ploughing fields for decades. They also hold cultural importance and are often featured in traditional festivals and folk tales.