Capybara and Tapir 'Besties' Euthanized on the Same Day, and the Reason Is Heartbreaking

Zookeepers at the Newquay Zoo in Cornwall, U.K., made the heartbreaking decision to euthanize a Capybara and a Brazilian Tapir who were "besties" together so they wouldn't be lonely.

According to a TikTok posted by the Daily Mail, the unlikely pair of friends bonded and have been inseparable for "nearly a decade." The nine-year-old Capybara named Johnson and the 20-year-old Tapir named Al both suffered age-related health issues, and vets together decided euthanasia was "the kindest option" for them.

@dailymailuk

Zookeepers made the heartbreaking decision to put down two "inseparable" animal best friends on the same day - so neither would be left alone. Al, a 20-year-old Brazilian tapir, and Johnson, a nine-year-old capybara, had formed a close bond after living together for nearly a decade at Newquay Zoo in Cornwall. Both had been suffering from age-related health issues, with vets deciding euthanasia was the kindest option. Keepers said saying goodbye at the same time would spare either animal from distress or loneliness. #dailymail#news#uk

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In a statement to the BBC, zookeepers confirmed that they made the "difficult decision" to prevent distress caused by separating the pair, "ensuring neither animal would experience isolation following the loss of a companion".

"It was difficult for us to say goodbye to them both at the same time, but it was the kindest thing for them," the statement continued. "This has been an incredibly difficult loss for those who cared for them daily. Both animals were much-loved members of our zoo community, and their absence will be deeply felt by staff and visitors alike."

The BBC also reported that Al and Johnson both stayed together in the South American enclosure and "developed a strong bond over the years," especially since "Capybaras and Tapirs are [both] naturally calm, social species."

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The internet couldn't contain its heartbreak at the news about Al and Johnson, with plenty of TikTok users sharing their condolences in the comments.

"I'm actually not in the headspace for this today," one person wrote, while another said, "I'm just going to believe that they are running together in a field in the sky."

"They were both suffering from age-related health issues," another wrote. "They grew old together… I'm crying."

One user even revealed, "We met them last year " during their visit to the zoo, and shared a sweet photo of the pair hanging out in the water together.

"I knew I would be crying over a Capybara and Tapir friendship," another added. "I just didn't know it would be today."

Related: Shelter Husky Who Was Almost Euthanized Gets His Freedom Ride With His Foster Mom Instead

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This story was originally published April 22, 2026 at 1:01 PM.