ELEPHANTS in Belfast Zoo have been given time to grieve following the death of the oldest member of their herd - 54-year-old Tina.
Yhetto and Dhunja have spent almost a decade living with the zoo's longest resident in their 'retirement home' sanctuary, replete with daily mud baths and pedicures.
Inconsolable staff at the city zoo - some of whom slept beside Tina in her early days to keep her company - announced yesterday they were closing the elephant and giraffe walk over the next few days to give the pair time to mourn due to the "extremely strong bonds" forged.
Arriving in Belfast more than 50 years ago, the playful Tina was shipped from a Birmingham pet shop at a cost of just £20 and required eight large loaves, half a sack of oats and three bales of hay for the crossing.
Keepers walked her daily during those early months - she was just one metre in height and weighed 150 kilograms - and slept close to her while feeding her during the night.
Her penchant for vistors' handbags, gloves, and umbrellas soon became apparent as did her extraordinary ability to pick locks.
As she grew bigger, she began to destroy lawnmowers.
Alongside her mischief making, Tina displayed a sensitive side and often rescued small birds and frogs that got into her enclosure.
Such was her popularity that the zoo is now appealing to members of the public for old film recordings or pictures to share their favourite memories.
Tina, who had suffered from arthritis, colapsed in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The zoo team and veterinary staff, along with assistance from the Fire Service, worked tirelessly with her but the "extremely difficult decision" was made to put Tina to sleep.
Zoo manager Alyn Cairns, said: "Tina was a very much-loved member of the zoo family and has a special place in the hearts of all the staff and also many generations of visitors who have visited her at Belfast Zoo.
"Our focus now is on supporting our dedicated staff, many of whom have been by Tina's side for well over 20 years.
"A number of years ago we made the decision to become a 'sanctuary' and retirement home for a herd of elderly non-breeding females, some from difficult backgrounds.
"We were aware of the responsibilities that came with caring for these older elephants and although we are all deeply saddened by Tina's death, we are delighted to have known and cared for Tina throughout the years.
"She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her but we are also incredibly grateful for all of the fantastic memories."
Tina was also one of the oldest elephants in the European breeding programme.
Belfast Zoo is urging any visitors who have photographs, videos or stories to email them to media@belfastzoo.co.uk or post them to Belfast Zoo, Antrim Road, Belfast, BT36 7PN.
