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The 'world’s oldest panda' has died aged 38 after a short illness

The world’s oldest panda in captivity has died at the grand old age of 38, her owners have confirmed.

Ocean Park said that Jia Jia, whose name means ‘good’, was put to sleep in Hong Kong after her health rapidly deteriorated over the past two weeks.

Her food consumption had sharply declined from more than 10kg to less than three kg per day and her average weight dropped from 156 pounds to around 147 pounds.

Illness: Jia Jia’s health had deteriorated over the past two weeks (Reuters)

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Ocean Park said in a statement: ”Over the past few days, she has been spending less time awake and showing no interest in food or fluids.

“Her condition became worse this morning. Jia Jia was not able to walk about without difficulties and spent the day laying down.

Heartbreaking: The decision was made to put the panda down over the weekend (Reuters)

“Her state became so debilitated that based on ethical reasons and in order to prevent suffering, veterinarians… agreed to a humane euthanasia for Jia Jia.”

The panda had been gifted to Hong Kong in 1999 along with another panda, to mark the second anniversary of the city’s handover from former colonial ruler Britain.

Top pic: AP