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Fota Wildlife Park announces death of Tadgh the giraffe

Tadgh was one of Fota Wildlife Park's oldest giraffes
Tadgh was one of Fota Wildlife Park's oldest giraffes

The Fota Wildlife Park in Cork has announced the death of one of its oldest giraffes, Tadgh, a 16-year-old Rothschild.

Initial indications suggest that he died from a heart attack.

Born in 2001 at Hamburg Zoo, Tadgh sired 23 calves since arriving in Cork 14 years ago.

His progeny also includes 17 "grandchildren", which can be found in zoos in Belfast, Dublin and the UK.

Rothschild giraffes are an endangered subspecies, who usually live for up to 20 years.

Tadgh was discovered this morning by staff at the zoo.

Fota Wildlife Park Director Sean McKeown described Tadgh as a gentle, easy-going animal that was well loved by staff.

He was due to become a father again later this summer.

The park has a dozen Rothschild giraffes.