Tapir and capybara put down on same day so neither friend would be lonely

The capybara and tapir were the best of friends (Picture: Newquay Zoo)

Zoo fans were left in tears after two inseparable animal pals were put to sleep on the same day, so neither would have to face life alone.

Keepers at Newquay Zoo in Cornwall made the tough call to euthanise Johnson, a nine-year-old capybara, and Al, a 20-year-old Brazilian tapir, after both suffered age-related health problems.

Staff said the decision was taken to spare the devoted duo from isolation if one passed before the other.