'She has made so many people smile': Emotional day for Telford zoo as long-standing resident dies aged 19

A zoo in Telford has announced the death of one of its longest‑standing and most recognisable animals.

Telford Exotic Zoo has announced the death of Dillon, a six-banded armadillo who recently celebrated her 19th birthday.

Dillon and her sister Doris have been with staff at the zoo since the business opened at its first location in Priorslee in 2017.

The pair celebrated their 19th birthdays in March, but staff said they had both begun to slow down as they surpassed the typical life expectancy for the species, even in zoos.

Keepers said Dillon had been receiving medication for arthritis, but had been emerging from her den less frequently.

Following a veterinary check‑up and a final course of treatment, she came out for breakfast on Sunday morning (May 31) before returning to her bed, where she passed away.

In a statement, the zoo said: “It’s never easy to lose an animal who you might see every day for more years than you can remember.

“The animals we care for are more than just animals, they feel like a member of the family.

“We are happy she died peacefully in her sleep and we thank her for a colourful life as a true rainforest and wildlife ambassador.

“She has made so many people smile and want to learn more about armadillos and their natural habitat, such an unusual animal always caught people’s attention and their hearts.”