Belfast Zoo has announced the death of Tina the elephant.

The Asian elephant had been a resident at the zoo since 1966. She collapsed on Sunday morning and staff and a vet took the difficult decision to put her to sleep.

The Fire Service had been called to the Cave Hill site on Sunday to assist.

A Belfast City Council statement said: "Belfast Zoo staff are extremely saddened by the death of much-loved Asian elephant, Tina. At age 54, Tina was one of the oldest elephants living in the Zoo arriving in 1966.

"Tina collapsed in the early hours of this morning and the very difficult decision was made by zoo staff and veterinary staff to put her to sleep.

"Belfast Zoo will remain open as normal, however the elephant house will be closed until further notice."

Tina arrived at the zoo from Tyseley Pet Store in Birmingham, at a shipping cost of £20. She became notorious for stealing – and sometimes eating – visitors' items, including handbags, coats, gloves and cameras.

Expand Expand Previous Next Close Making a 'trunk call' in 1984. Tina / Facebook

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Belfast Telegraph