Everything you need to know about Tapirs!

28 June 2023

Find out more about tapirs in our guide!

What is a tapir?

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.

 

What does a tapir look like?

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!

 

How many types of Tapirs are there?

There are four commonly recognised species of Tapir: 

  • The Lowland Tapir, also known as the South American Tapir (these are found in South America).
  • Baird’s Tapir (found in Central America and the north-west of South America)
  • Mountain Tapir (found in the north-west of South America)
  • Malay Tapir (found in south-east Asia)..

 

What does a tapir eat?

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.

 

What is a baby tapir called?

A baby tapir is called a calf. When born, a calf is covered in black, yellow, and white stripes and spots. 

 

What family is the tapir in?

Tapirs belong to the Tapiridae family. They also belong to the Tapirus genus.

 

Where do tapirs live?

The four main types of tapirs can be found across several locations throughout the world:

  • The Lowland Tapir inhabit a large area of land from north-central Colombia throughout most of tropical South America.
  • Baird’s Tapir can be found in Mexico in the Oaxaca province as well as parts of Central America.
  • Mountain Tapirs live high in the mountains of Colombia, Northern Peru and Ecuador, usually between 2000 and 4000 meters in elevation.
  • Malay Tapirs live far from those mentioned above. They are found in Southern Thailand and Southern Myanmar through the Malayan peninsula and on the island of Sumatra.

 

What dangers do the tapir face?

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.

 

What is the tapir related to?

The closest living relative of the tapir are rhinos and horses.

 

How long can tapirs live for?

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!

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