Popular Longleat resident dies aged 28
Jessie the tapir had been at the Safari park since 1997
Last updated 4th Sep 2024
One of the longest-serving and most popular residents at a Wiltshire safari park has died at the age of 28.
Jessie the tapir had been part of the international breeding programme at Longleat since 1997, but had been receiving palliative care in recent months.
Darren Beasley, head of animal operations, said: “She is very much going to be missed. She has been here longer than some of the keepers caring for her have been alive; she recognised her keepers and would roll over for them and loved her tummy being scratched. She was popular with them and with our guests.
“She has struggled with her movement over recent months, and we moved to palliative care to ensure she was as comfortable as possible. However, she deteriorated over the last few days and she was put to sleep yesterday morning.”
Jessie's son Denzil, who was born in 2000 and now lives at Exmoor Zoo, has gone on to father eight more calves, resulting in seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren for Jessie.
Chico was born in 2002 and is dad to Tallulah, who lives at Longleat, as well as six other offspring. Gomez arrived in 2006 and Hugo in 2007, they along with Chico have since moved to other zoos.
Tina Wilkin, Lead Keeper Safari, said: “Jessie would do anything for watermelons and hot cross buns. She was a keeper favourite and even though she had slowed down recently, she still enjoyed a swim in the pond as well as treats and cuddles from the keepers."
Tallulah, Jessie’s granddaughter can still be seen in Longleat and Tina says: “Jessie definitely gave Tallulah confidence, and she is the tapir she is today because of Jessie.”