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The National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra is mourning the death of its beloved Sumatran tiger Berani, whose passing has been described as "both unexpected and tragic".

Benari was born at Perth Zoo in 2000 and had lived in Canberra for the past 13 years.

However, in a Facebook post on Monday evening (20th April), the Zoo announced Berani had died, stating "the loss of Berani was both unexpected and tragic ... it is an extremely sad and difficult time for all our staff and volunteers. Berani will be greatly missed.”

National Zoo and Aquarium Director Trent Russell said the zoo was still awaiting final test results, but he believed the tiger died of kidney failure.

Russell said it was a problem not uncommon in big cats of Berani's age.

More than 100 people left messages expressing their sadness over the animal's death.

The Zoo described Berani as "a much-loved member of our zoo family" and encouraged patrons to post pictures and memories of the tiger on the zoo's Facebook page.

Russell said Berani was a real favourite at the zoo, particularly among staff.

He added “it's upsetting. He really only got sick a few weeks ago so it's happened really quickly.”

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