Lonely Cornwall alpaca cheered up with unlikely object while he waits for new friends

Giovanni has had a mirror placed in his enclosure after the death of his alpaca companions. Photo / Screech Owl Sanctuary & Animal Park

A Cornwall animal sanctuary has made a surprising addition to the enclosure of an elderly alpaca awaiting new companions.

Giovanni, a resident at Screech Owl Sanctuary & Animal Park, was lonely after the death of his two alpaca friends, prompting management to appeal for the support of the local community.

“Since losing his best friend last week, Giovanni is in need of a special treat. While it is too cold for his paddling pool, we are asking if any of you are able to donate a mirror for him.”

The sanctuary has now received “plenty” of mirrors it plans to use as a short-term solution before two female alpacas are introduced to the pen.

“Mirrors are a really good form of enrichment for alpacas as they provide a sense of companionship,” the post reads.

Park operations director Gary Zammit told the BBC the 18-year-old animal seemed happier after the introduction of the looking glass.

“He’s been pretty good but it’s even better when he’s got that there so he can see another alpaca as far as he, hopefully, thinks in the paddock with him.”

Sanctuary staff are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Giovanni’s new friends, both donated by a frequent park visitor.

“We would hopefully be looking at picking them up as soon as possible,” he said.

“We’ve just got to do some planning because obviously you can’t just take animals from anywhere and add them to a collection of this size.”

Zammit said while the newest residents will need to be quarantined and tested when they arrive on site, he expects the three alpacas won’t be apart for much longer.