Zoo's giraffe dies after suffering kidney failure

Bashu the giraffe had been at Whipsnade Zoo, Bedfordshire, since 2014

A beloved and "iconic" giraffe that appeared in a Netflix drama has been put down after it suffered kidney failure.

Whipsnade Zoo, in Bedfordshire, said Bashu, 13, was "euthanised" on Monday after he developed a serious intestinal issue.

Bashu featured in an episode of the hit series Heartstopper, when the characters headed to the zoo to celebrate the birthday of Nick Nelson, played by Kit Connor.

The zoo said it was a "difficult decision" and staff did everything they could to save the 4.8m (16ft) giraffe.

Scenes were filmed at Whipsnade Zoo for episode three of the Netflix Heartstopper series

The zoo said the "difficult decision to euthanise him" was due to a serious intestinal issue and it was the kindest option.

It said he was "beloved" and a "true gentle giant" who came to the zoo in 2014.

Matthew Webb, head of zoological operations, said: "Bashu was a wonderful giraffe, and much loved by staff and visitors alike.

"His legacy lives on through the five calves he fathered at Whipsnade Zoo - Timba, Myra, Wilfred, Khari and Nuru."

Bashu was "beloved by his keepers, vets, and visitors alike" said the zoo

Bashu had been under veterinary observation for more than a year due to a foot problem.

In June he underwent a radical hoof procedure under general anaesthetic and was fitted with temporary shoes.

He was closely monitored and was "doing well", it added.

On Monday his keepers noticed he was off his food and called the vets.

An emergency standing sedation was carried out and he was found to be bloated and uncomfortable - "signs that he was contending with a serious gastrointestinal issue".

Experts discovered he was dehydrated and blood tests showed his kidneys were failing.

Amanda Guthrie, head of wildlife services, said: "It's truly sad to say goodbye to such an iconic animal, but we can take some solace in knowing that we did everything we could for him."

A post-mortem examination proved he had a "severe, and untreatable, intestinal issue, which would have caused his kidneys to fail", the zoo confirmed.