Tapirs are a very recognisable species of animal! They are a large herbivorous mammal that are related to the rhinoceros and horse (although you wouldn’t think it by looking at them). The history of the tapir stretches back over millions of years, all the way back to the Eocene. In fact, the tapir is South America’s largest native land mammal.
The Tapir is a large animal that can weigh anywhere from 300 – 800lbs. Visually, they share similarities with both pigs and anteaters. The most notable feature of the Tapir is its prehensile trunk that can be used for gripping and foraging. They can also use their nose when swimming to help them breathe. The tapir has four toes on their front feet and three toes on their hind feet. The tapir’s body is rounded in the back and tapering in the front which allows them to move quickly through dense landscapes.
Fun fact: Tapirs can wiggle their nose!
There are four commonly recognised species of Tapir:
The tapir is an herbivore which means that they only eat plants. And much like other herbivores, these wonderful animals are often found eating fruits, berries, shrubs, herbs, leaves, grasses, and a variety of plants.
A baby tapir is called a calf. When born, a calf is covered in black, yellow, and white stripes and spots.
Tapirs belong to the Tapiridae family. They also belong to the Tapirus genus.
The four main types of tapirs can be found across several locations throughout the world:
Unfortunately, all of the four types of tapirs are currently at risk. This is largely due to hunting and habitat loss. Despite having survived for an enormous length of time, and outlasting over species, the tapir is facing many difficulties. Unlike certain other mammals, tapirs don’t reproduce quickly with pregnancies lasting 13 months! They will also only have one calf per pregnancy. This, combined with the habitat loss & hunting, makes it a challenge to preserve population numbers.
The closest living relative of the tapir are rhinos and horses.
A tapir can live for up to 25-30 years both in the wild and in zoos.
If you want to help the animals at Paradise Wildlife Park you can adopt a tapir for yourself or as a gift for friends or family. Or, for something more memorable you can book a place on our tapir experience today!