STAFF and visitors to Tropiquaria Zoo, near Watchet, are mourning the loss of one of the wildlife park’s oldest residents, known as Mrs Nasty.

The zoo’s ‘beloved’ spectacled caiman has died following a short, age-related illness, leaving behind a mystery as to how she came to live in West Somerset.

A spokesperson said: “We are very sad to say that we have said our final goodbyes to Mrs Nasty.

“Having been at the zoo since before any of her human companions even arrived, Mrs Nasty has been a permanent fixture of Tropiquaria for us all.

“Despite her stubborn ways and bad temper, she will be missed by us all.

“We never knew anything really about her, other than some historical records suggesting she was held by Bristol University some time in 1989.

“But, before that point was always a mystery, and how she even came to Tropiquaria in the first place was unclear.

“She was a true classic, nonetheless.

“RIP Mrs Nasty.”

Dozens of zoo supporters took to social media to express their sadness at the passing of Mrs Nasty.

One woman, Toni Claire, said: “Oh, how sad.

“There were two, many years ago when I used to go at least once a week with my son, which was nearly 30 years ago.

“I remember us watching for ages hoping there would be movement, and it was very exciting if we saw any.

“She was the queen of mimicking a model of a caiman.

“Mrs Nasty will be missed by many of us.

“Definitely the end of an era.

“Thank you for looking after her so well.”

Phyllis Mullaney said: “Oh no, so sorry.

“My grandchildren will miss seeing her, she was one of their favourites.”

Catherine Dean said: “A real feature of the zoo. We always pay a visit to see her. RIP.”