Heartbreak as zoo announces sudden death of two-year-old animal |
At just two-and-a-half years old, Santiago was the youngest lowland tapir at Amazona Zoo in Cromer.
He died unexpectedly on April 18.
Santiago was two and a half years old (Image: Amazona Zoo)
In a touching tribute, a spokeswoman for the zoo said: "Our special boy has left us way too early and all of our hearts are broken.
"Santiago bought so much joy to all our lives and we will never forget him.
"From saving his life at 24 hours old to then hand-feeding him for the next 6 months, the bond between Santiago and his keepers was always going to run deep.
He was described as 'special' and a 'goofball' (Image: Amazona Zoo)
"He never grew as he should have done, but suffered no ill effects apart from not being able to reach the taller branches of his browse."
The tribute described him as a “little goofball” who made everyone laugh.
"We were privileged to have cared for him," it continued.
The team at the zoo have shared their heartbreak (Image: Amazona Zoo)
Santiago’s mother, Ennis, is being closely cared for following his death.
Amazona Zoo has asked visitors to be mindful when speaking to staff, adding that the loss is still “very raw”.