A pair of endangered Red Panda cubs have died over at Longleat - keepers believe in part due to the plummeting temperatures.

The park said they were devastated to report that twin Red Panda cubs, Tala and Sumi, passed away. They were found dead in their nesting box on December 15 with initial veterinary investigations pointing towards hypothermia and the weaning process, with mum Emma no longer offering supportive feeds as the most likely reason.

The team added: " Although it has been very cold onsite, temperatures in the wild for these animals would go down to -15 degrees Celsius. We've provided an increase in diet, shelter and bedding, however the cubs were mostly still dependant on their mum. Unfortunately these animals have a very high mortality rate – only approximately 1 in 5 cubs survive to adulthood in the wild.

"The pair were born to parents, Emma and Lionel, this summer as part of a breeding programme for the endangered species and have been closely monitored and looked after by our dedicated team.

"We know so many of you have loved seeing these beautiful creatures for yourselves and will share our sadness in having to say goodbye to them. Thank you for your understanding at this time, especially for our keepers who formed such a special bond with them both."