need to know
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Newquay Zoo euthanized Johnson, the capybara and the tapir Al on February 20
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The pair had a close bond in the zoo’s South American enclosure
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The decision came after the health of both animals declined due to age
Two long-term residents at a British zoo were euthanized on the same day, with zoo officials making what they said was a difficult but compassionate decision.
Newquay Zoo announced in a statement on Friday, February 20, that Johnson, a 9-year-old capybara, and Al, a 20-year-old Brazilian tapir, were humanely euthanized on February 20 due to “age-related declining health.”
Al and Johnson at Newquay Zoo
Image source: Newquay Zoo
“After careful evaluation and consultation with our veterinarian and animal care teams, we have made the difficult decision to humanely euthanize both animals,” the zoo said in a statement.
In a statement to PEOPLE, a zoo representative emphasized that while the original press release detailed the circumstances leading up to the controversial decision, there was also a very “human side” to the decision.
A representative from Zoos UK said: “Our animal care team work with animals every day and naturally form strong bonds over the years. Saying goodbye is never easy. However, our responsibility is always first and foremost to the animals in our care and the decision to humanely euthanize is made after a careful veterinary assessment. “Ensuring each animal is protected from unnecessary suffering is a fundamental part of compassionate zoo management. We are incredibly proud of the professionalism and dedication shown by our team during such a sensitive time.”
Johnson was born at Chester Zoo in 2016 and arrived at Newquay Zoo in 2017, according to a news release. Described by staff as a “cheeky but gentle” animal, he quickly became a favorite with visitors and keepers alike.
Al was born in Gdańsk Zoo in 2005 and joined Newquay Zoo in 2014. This stoic tapir is known for its calm demeanor. During his years at the facility, he developed particularly strong bonds with the care team.
Johnson and Al both lived in the zoo’s South American enclosure, where their relationship grew steadily. “Capybaras and tapirs are both naturally calm, social species, and the two animals have developed a strong bond over the years,” the zoo noted.
As the press release explains, both Johnson and Ayer experienced worsening health challenges that impacted their quality of life. After weighing their options, zoo officials chose to euthanize them together to ensure that neither animal would feel isolated and lonely after losing the other.
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“This is an extremely difficult loss for those who care for them every day,” the statement read, adding that both animals were “well-loved members of our zoo community.”
The zoo thanks visitors for their understanding and support, noting that the South American enclosure will now be reviewed as part of ongoing development plans and Brazilian tapir conservation recommendations.
Read the original article on People
