A male hippo has died at Auckland Zoo.
Staff have taken to social media this afternoon to announce the death of a "normally energetic" 28-year-old hippopotamus called "Fudge".
The cause of the animal's death is unknown but according to the zoo it had been unwell and had not been eating. A post-mortem will be done to determine the cause of death.
"We're extremely sad to share that our much-loved male hippo Fudge has died," the Facebook post says.
"Normally energetic with a great appetite, Fudge (28), had been showing signs of illness over the past few days - being uncharacteristically lethargic and off his food. His cause of death is unknown, and a full post-mortem is to be carried out to investigate."
Fudge was born at Auckland Zoo in 1988. His 40-year-old mother, Faith, who is also at Auckland Zoo survives him.
"Our thoughts go out to all our staff and volunteers and everyone who loved Fudge, especially to our amazing team of Pridelands keepers who cared so passionately for him," staff said.