Important Update Regarding our Tapir and Capybara

It is with deep sadness that we announce the loss of Johnson, our nine-year-old capybara, and Al, our 20-year-old Brazilian tapir. Following careful assessment and consultation between our veterinary and animal care teams, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanise both animals on Friday 20 February due to age-related health decline.

Johnson was born in 2016 at Chester Zoo and arrived at Newquay Zoo in 2017, where his cheeky yet gentle personality quickly made him a favourite with visitors and staff alike.

Al was born in 2005 at Gdańsk Zoo and joined Newquay Zoo in 2014. A steady and much-loved presence in the enclosure, Al became known for his calm temperament and strong bond with his dedicated keeper team.

Johnson and Al shared a long-standing companionship within our South American enclosure. Capybaras and tapirs are naturally calm, social species, and the two animals had developed a strong bond over the years.

In recent months, both Johnson and Al had been experiencing increasing health challenges that were impacting their quality of life. After careful consideration, we made the difficult decision to humanely euthanise them together, ensuring neither animal would experience isolation following the loss of a companion.

This has been an incredibly difficult loss for those who cared for them daily. Both animals were much-loved members of our zoo community, and their absence will be deeply felt by staff and visitors alike.

We thank our visitors for their understanding and support at this difficult time.

As part of our ongoing development plans and in line with Brazilian tapir conservation recommendations, the South American enclosure will now undergo review, with further updates shared in due course.