Ben Fogle has shared his heartbreak after his beloved family pets were killed after being taken by a fox.
The TV adventurer, 48, shared an emotional message on Instagram confirming his guinea pigs Q and Patch had been killed by a fox which dug into their hutch.
His wife Marina said there were "many tears shed" as Ben Fogle told his 468,000 followers "they were a part of our happy family."
The New Lives in the Wild presenter said: "We lost our little Guinea Pig friends Q and Patch. They were taken by a fox who dug into their hutch.
"I’m surprised by how sad I feel. They were so much more than just rodents. They were our friends, a part of our happy family.
"It’s amazing the relationship we can build with those we care for, no matter how big or small, hairy or scaly. They brought us so much happiness, joy and laughter.
"They taught the children so much about responsibility, love and now grief, but above all, they reminded us that however hard the pain of loss, it’s still worth it. As the great Dr Seuss said, ‘don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened’.
"Thank you for the sweetness you brought into our lives, I’ll miss your singing in the morning. Fair wind little Cuy’s, I hope there’s lots of fresh spinach up there."
Ben and Marina have two children together - Ludo, 12 and Iona, 11.
Marina added: "Our beloved Q and Patch are in guinea pig heaven. Today has been a day of great sadness, with many tears shed and the sound of sobs reverberating from our house.
"But it’s also been a day of love, with hugs and understanding from our friends, the appreciation that even though they were only small rodents, that our sadness was real and valid."
Commenting on the post, presenter Matt Baker said: " I always say the reason we love our pets so much is because the only time they break our hearts is when they leave us."
Meanwhile @graciejsilver said: " I’m so sorry for your loss. I had them as a child so I feel your pain. Guinea Pigs are amazing little souls full of character and joy." @nofrillscosmetics added: "That's a harsh way to go. Sorry for your loss. They obviously had a wonderful life with your family."
