Tapir and capybara put down on same day so neither friend would be lonely

Zoo fans were left in tears after two inseparable animal pals were put to sleep on the same day, so neither would have to face life alone.

Keepers at Newquay Zoo in Cornwall made the tough call to euthanise Johnson, a nine-year-old capybara, and Al, a 20-year-old Brazilian tapir, after both suffered age-related health problems.

Staff said the decision was taken to spare the devoted duo from isolation if one passed before the other.

The pair were favourites of visitors and had formed a touching bond in their South American enclosure.

A zoo spokesperson explained that capybaras and tapirs are naturally calm, social animals – and over the years, Al and Johnson had become inseparable.

Both had battled health challenges in recent months, which had affected their quality of life.

A zoo spokesperson said: ‘This has been an incredibly difficult loss for those who cared for them daily.

‘It was difficult for us to say goodbye to them both at the same time, but it was the kindest thing for them.

‘Both animals were much-loved members of our zoo community, and their absence will be deeply felt by staff and visitors alike.’

Johnson was born in 2016 at Chester Zoo and arrived at Newquay Zoo in 2017, where his ‘cheeky yet gentle personality’ made him a star.

Al was born in 2005 at Gdansk Zoo and joined Newquay Zoo in 2014. He was known for his calm temperament.

The emotional news comes after Newquay Zoo was bought by Dutch leisure giant Libéma in December.

The Cornish attraction – along with Paignton Zoo in Devon – had previously been put up for sale amid soaring operating costs.

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