Popular Longleat seal lion Buster has died at the age of 26. The safari park near Warminster announced the news on its Facebook page on Monday (March 21).
The post included one of the keepers' favourite videos of Buster, which showed him swimming towards the camera before jumping out of the water onto the rocks. It also included a touching tribute to the 'much loved' Buster, reports Wiltshire Live.
It read: "We are sorry to announce that Buster, our much loved male sea lion, has passed away at the grand old age of 26. Buster was a larger than life character to his team of keepers and the millions of visitors who got to see and, of course, hear him from across the estate.
READ MORE: Army veteran reflects on a life with 'no regrets' as he turns 100
"Over the years Buster has been part of our growing colony of sea lions on Half Mile Pond and will be missed by all."
Since yesterday the post has received over 1,000 comments, with many sharing happy memories of visiting the park over the years and visiting Buster. One person commented: "So sorry. I always loved watching Buster from the boats. Swim free over Rainbow Bridge Buster. Condolences to his keepers"
While another added: "Awww bless him, he was a beautiful boy and very loud, thinking of all the wonderful keepers who cared for him." And some remembered how popular he was with the female sea lions, one user said: "He was such a handsome boy and what a life he had with his ladies and awesome family of keepers. I will miss him. Rest easy big boy"
As well as being popular at the park, Buster also appeared on TV on BBC show Animal Park.
Sign up for our weekly What's On in Bristol newsletter packed with essential stories to help you make the most of living in the city
