A couple from the UK came across a sad scene in Copenhagen Zoo today (December 4) after an elephant that died overnight was wrapped in tarpaulin and left in the rain.

Footage shows the jumbo - named Thiha Phyu - wrapped in a sheet with its feet poking out in a back alley of the facility.

Thiha Phyu was the oldest female elephant in the country at 39-years-old.

According to the filmer the corpse had to be dragged with the aid of tractors that are also seen in the video.

The filmer who spoke with a member of staff found out that the 39-year-old animal passed away overnight after being found in an unusual position.

It was later revealed by the member of staff that the elephant had a tough life after being raised in Myanmar.

The zoo released a statement on their Facebook page announcing the passing where they said: "The oldest female elephant is dead on the night of Wednesday after a brief illness.

"The Elephant was the last week under treatment for problems with one foot and has also suffered from colic in the last few days.

"Vet Carsten Grøndahl was present in the stable last night when the elephant died".

Elephant died at zoo