Cornish Seal Sanctuary's tribute to 'incredible soul' sea lion

Elliot Badrick recalled Diego's cheeky and loyal nature

A sea lion which died at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary has been described by its closest human companion as an "incredible soul".

Diego died on Saturday after suffering a "urologic emergency", the sanctuary said.

Although initial treatment worked, Diego suffered complications and had to be "let go", it added.

Elliot Badrick, Diego's primary trainer, described Diego as a "joy".

Elliot Badrick, Diego's primary trainer, described the sea lion as a joy

He added: "Over the past year, Diego flourished, becoming his own sea lion and building an unbreakable bond with his team, who adored him.

"Just as the team was there for him, Diego was always there for them, too. He knew many a secret and would always be there for a little chin scratch - a bright spot, even on a bad day.

He added: "For those who knew and met Diego on their visits, or supported us from afar, we hope you will join us in sharing your memories of this incredible soul."

He said Diego had arrived the sanctuary in Gweek in 2009 with his brother Noito and had since kept trainers entertained "every day".

Mr Badrick, also senior animal care specialist at the sanctuary, added: "Often compared to a giant labrador, he had few boundaries when it came to personal space.

Diego "flourished" and "became his own sealion", the sanctuary said

"Sometimes, he would accidentally rest his flippers on their feet or, when asked to lie down for a body check, would make sure to come as close as possible, seeking assurance that everything was going to be okay."

Describing Diego as "loyal, adorable and cheeky", he said the sea lion would "boop" his nose against the glass on the underwater window to greet the team every morning, and loved to play hide and seek, "chasing the team up and down through the windows".

He added: "Diego had so much trust with his primary caregivers, even up to his last days with us.

"Sometimes, he would be so eager to interact with his trainer, he would trip over his cumbersome front flippers and then roar out of pure humiliation."

The sanctuary said it was awaiting lab results from the post-mortem examination to "fully understand the cause of his sudden deterioration".

"As we say goodbye to Diego, we would like to thank everyone who has been so supportive to our animal care team at this hard time, and the wider Cornish Seal Sanctuary teasm, who will miss him so much."