Zookeepers 'devastated' as much-loved hippo Mana suddenly dies at the age of 26 at a popular NSW zoo
- Mana the 26-year-old hippo died at Taronga Western Plains Zoo on Tuesday
- He was a beloved animal but tragically suffered sudden acute heart failure
- Staff from the zoo shared the news and said they're 'devastated' by Mana's death
A beloved hippo has suddenly died at one of New South Wales' most popular zoos leaving zookeepers heartbroken.
Mana the 26-year-old hippo suffered a medical episode in his paddock on Tuesday afternoon at his home at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, central NSW.
The zoo's veterinary team were called to Mana's enclosure but tragically the hippo was unable to be saved, with an investigation finding he had suffered sudden acute heart failure.
Mana the 26-year-old hippo suffered a medical episode in his paddock on Tuesday afternoon at his home at the Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, in central NSW
The zoo broke the news on Facebook and said the team were 'devastated' by Mana's death.
'The loss of Mana is a huge shock to the entire Zoo team, especially the dedicated keepers who cared for him for so many years. It is a very difficult and distressing time for all involved,' they wrote.
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'Mana was close to our hearts having been born here at the Zoo in March 1996. Keepers describe him as a gentle giant.'
The hippo was the largest bull at the zoo and fathered females Kibibi and Kendi and male Kani.
Staff at the zoo said Mana was a popular attraction and was well known among guests who came from all over Australia to visit.
The hippo had lived at the zoo his entire life and was a very popular animal with guests
'He had a great disposition with an extremely patient and gentle nature and instilled awe in those who met him,' they said.
The Facebook post was flooded with comments from many who had visited the zoo sending their condolences to all staff.
Others shared photos of their own experiences with the beloved hippo with some admitting they travelled from far and wide just to see him.
The hippo was the largest bull at the zoo and fathered females Kibibi and Kendi and male Kani
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