Visitors to Welsh Mountain Zoo have been left saddened after the popular Colwyn Bay attraction announced the unexpected death of Mango the capybara.

The zoo confirmed that Mango passed away on Sunday, only a short time after arriving at the attraction and becoming a firm favourite with visitors and staff.

Mango had quickly captured the hearts of the Welsh Mountain Zoo community, with many people following his journey from the opening of his new Cabana Capybara habitat to helping choose his name.

The zoo’s animal care team said they were “heartbroken” by the loss of Mango, adding that he had already become a much-loved member of the Welsh Mountain Zoo family despite only recently joining them.

In a statement, the zoo said: “We know so many of you had been following Mango’s journey, from the opening of his new habitat to helping choose his name. Your excitement and support meant so much, and we are deeply sorry to be sharing such sad news.”

The cause of Mango’s death is not yet known, with the zoo now awaiting further veterinary findings to help understand what happened.

The Cabana Capybara habitat will remain temporarily closed while investigations continue.

The zoo said the welfare of every animal in its care remains its highest priority and thanked visitors for the kindness and understanding shown towards staff during what it described as an incredibly difficult time.

Mango’s arrival had been welcomed with excitement earlier this year, with the new habitat becoming one of the latest attractions at the zoo and drawing attention from visitors keen to meet one of the world’s largest rodents.

The Welsh Mountain Zoo said further updates would be shared once more information is available.