Paddy died on Saturday despite intensive treatment

A six-day old baby and its mother Kizi died in a fire week ago at Paignton Zoo and Kizi's mate Paddy died on Saturday.

Staff have received messages from zoos and individuals from as far afield as Germany, Israel and the US.

A zoo spokesperson said: "Seeing how many messages the zoo is getting is heart-warming."

Intensive treatment

"The zoo would like to say a big thank you to all those who have sent in messages, cards, flowers and donations of support and condolences from all over the world."

Kizi and her baby died on Sunday night in the fire, thought to have been caused by an electrical fault.

Paddy was suffering from the effects of smoke inhalation and despite intensive treatment, he collapsed and died early on Saturday.

Vets had prescribed antibiotics and steroids to counter the effects of shock and ease his breathing.

The zoo's executive director Simon Tonge said staff were devastated by the loss but determined to rebuild the herd.

"It will take time," said Mr Tonge.

"We have already been in touch with the studbook keeper with a view to finding new animals."

The animals which died were Rothschild giraffes.

They are found on the savannah and open forests of East Africa and are listed as being of "lower risk, conservation dependent" in the IUCN World Conservation Union Red Lists.