ONE of the newest residents at Jersey Zoo has died unexpectedly, it has been announced.
Olive, a “much-loved” capybara who arrived in the Island this summer, suffered an “unexpected death” over the weekend due to a sudden onset gastrointestinal issue, the organisation’s vet team confirmed.
A statement released by Jersey Zoo said: “Whilst this was completely unforeseen, problems associated with the stomach and intestines can be sadly quite common in rodent species.
“The team are devastated by her unexpected death, and our dedicated keepers continue to provide the best of care to her half-sister, Maple.”
The statement continued: “Since her arrival, she had grown greatly in confidence as she explored the central lake and enjoyed nibbling on bamboo in the paddock.
“Olive quickly became a Zoo favourite, and she will be greatly missed by staff, visitors and volunteers.”
Olive was born at ZooParc de Beauval, in central France, in May last year, before joining Jersey Zoo with Maple in August.
The pair went on display at the end of September after several weeks settling into their custom-built enclosure by the Zoo’s central lake.
The semi-aquatic animals, which are native to South America, are the biggest species of rodent on Earth.
This is not the first time capybaras have taken up residence at Jersey Zoo, with founder Gerald Durrell bringing the mammals to the Island in the 1980s.
Their native land in South America is under threat, due to habitat destruction, waste pollution and climate change.
