sam the penguin colchester zoo dead
One of the first penguins successfully hatched at Colchester Zoo has died aged 32.
Sam, a male Humboldt penguin, died on September 11.
When he hatched, he initially had to be hand-reared for the best chance of survival.
Sam had been under veterinary care for a few weeks prior to his death having suffered from a respiratory infection.
A spokesman for the Maldon Road zoo said: "Sadly, his condition deteriorated further and after veterinary examination the difficult but kindest decision was made to euthanise Sam
"Sam was a fantastic character who had a special bond with his dedicated keepers. He was and will always will be a much-loved penguin and will be sadly missed by many."
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