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Perth Zoo's famous 500kg estuarine crocodile Simmo has died at the age of 70
One of the zoo's most loved residents, Simmo had been feeling unwell recently
Perth Zoo remembered him as a fierce predator who made many people smile
Former and current zoo visitors and staff have posted heartfelt tributes

By Kylie Stevens For Daily Mail Australia

Published: 00:29 EST, 29 November 2018 | Updated: 01:23 EST, 29 November 2018

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A 70-year-old estuarine crocodile has died at Perth Zoo following suspected gastrointestinal issues.

The crowd favourite named Simmo, was more than 4.75 metres long and tipped the scales at about 500kg.

Simmo had recently been feeling unwell and had started refusing to eat.

'It is with deep sorrow that we said farewell to our Estuarine Crocodile Simmo (pictured) yesterday,' Perth Zoo posted on its Facebook page on Thursday

He died on Wednesday in his enclosure.

Perth Zoo confirmed the sad news regarding one of its oldest and much loved residents on Thursday.

'Simmo was an incredible ambassador animal and a very special member of the Perth Zoo family,' the zoo said in a statement on its website.

'Simmo may have been a fierce predator but he made many people smile, and will be remembered as a beloved crocodile!'

Simmo's daily feeding sessions (pictured) was one of Perth Zoo's most popular attractions

Simmo was one of the most popular attractions at the zoo, particularly at feeding times every day in the warmer months, where he would launch himself two metres into air for his daily meal.

Simmo arrived at Perth Zoo in 1998 after following his removal from Darwin Harbour by wildlife officers who were concerned about public safety.

He spent several years at other wildlife parks, including Janamba Crocodile facility in the Northern Territory, where he soon developed a reputation for his anti-social behaviour.

Simmo (pictured) enjoyed a bachelor life in his 20 years at Perth Zoo

'Once it became apparent that Simmo preferred the bachelor life he was moved to Perth Zoo. He was housed in his own ‘bachelor pad’ that included a heated pool and artificial turf, soft enough to protect the underside of his feet and belly,' the zoo's statement read.

Social media has been flooded with heartfelt tributes from former and current zoo visitors and staff.

'My son is going be heartbroken. We always made sure to visit Simmo every visit. He was one of the many reasons we became zoo members. RIP Simmo and love to his keepers that worked so hard looking after him over the years,' one woman posted.

Another tweeted: 'When I was a volunteer guide at Perth Zoo, Simmo was always one of the biggest drawcards. He'll be missed.'