Safari park mourns death of 'keeper favourite' tapir

Jessie arrived at Longleat in 1997 and lived to the age of 28.

Keepers at a safari park say one of their most popular residents, a female tapir, has died.

Jessie lived at Longleat in Wiltshire, and lived to the age of 28, a normal lifespan for the species.

She arrived at Longleat in November 1997 and was part of the international tapir breeding programme, with four generations of descendants at zoos around Europe.

Darren Beasley, head of animal operations at Longleat, said: “She is very much going to be missed."

Jessie had several babies, including Gomez (front) in 2006.

He continued: "Jessie has been here longer than some of the keepers caring for her have been alive; she recognised her keepers and would roll over for them and loved her tummy being scratched.

“She has struggled with her movement over recent months, and we moved to palliative care to ensure she was as comfortable as possible.

"However, she deteriorated over the last few days and she was put to sleep yesterday (Tuesday) morning.”

Longleat said Jessie was one of the most popular residents of the safari park.

Tina Wilkin, Lead Keeper Safari, said: “Jessie would do anything for watermelons and hot cross buns.

"She was a keeper favourite and even though she had slowed down recently, she still enjoyed a swim in the pond as well as treats and cuddles from the keepers."