A much-loved black rhino at Paignton Zoo has died after a long illness. Sita, 33, stopped responding to treatment and officials made the "extremely difficult decision" to put her down to save her suffering further.

It was announced yesterday that her illness had prompted the closure of the rhino closure at the zoo. Paignton Zoo said today (April 12) that the area will remain closed "for a little while longer".

Sita arrived at the zoo in 2002 and quickly became a popular character among staff and visitors to the zoo. She made headlines in 2007 when she gave birth to her daughter Zuri before being joined by her companion, Manyara, in 2010.

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A Paignton Zoo spokesperson said: "We are very sad to announce the death of Sita, our 33-year-old black rhinoceros, earlier today.

“Sita had been unwell for some time and since Saturday has been receiving round-the-clock veterinary care as ongoing health issues were no longer responding to treatment. After very careful assessment, the veterinary and animal teams made the extremely difficult decision to euthanise her on welfare grounds. The team are very saddened by this loss.

“We know how sad this news will be to our community. Since becoming part of the Paignton Zoo family in 2002, she has been a popular character. In 2007, she made headlines when she gave birth to her daughter, Zuri, via Livestream. In 2010, she was joined by her companion, Manyara, who still lives here at Paignton Zoo. In the interests of his comfort, the Rhino House will remain closed for a little while longer.

“We would like to thank everyone for their kindness and support during this time. Sita was immensely loved and will remain in the hearts of the team and our visitors.”

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