South American Tapir
Tapirus terrestrisAlso known as Lowland Tapir, Brazilian Tapir, Amazonian Tapir, Maned Tapir
South American tapirs navigate dense rainforests and wetlands using their highly flexible, prehensile proboscis to sniff out and pluck choice leaves, fruits, and aquatic vegetation. These solitary, excellent swimmers frequently plunge into rivers to escape predators, cool down, or rid themselves of parasites. Mothers raise a single, white-spotted calf for over a year, teaching it to navigate the complex forest undergrowth.
- diet
- Herbivorous (leaves, fruits, twigs, and aquatic plants)
- family
- Tapiridae
- threats
- Habitat loss, deforestation, hunting, and vehicle collisions
- life Span
- 25 to 30 years
VU
Can charge or bite if startled or cornered; maintain a respectful distance at all times.
Adults can weigh up to 250 kilograms and may charge, trample, or deliver a powerful bite if they feel threatened or cornered.
Never block their path to water, and back away slowly if they stamp their feet or snort loudly.Listed as Vulnerable due to severe habitat fragmentation, slow reproductive rates, and heavy hunting pressure.
Support local habitat corridor initiatives and never purchase products derived from wild tapirs.- Listen closely: Listen for high-pitched whistles and snorts, which these large mammals use to communicate through dense brush.
- Look for tracks: Search muddy riverbanks for their distinctive three-toed hind tracks and four-toed front tracks.
- Keep your distance: Avoid approaching closely, especially if a mother is accompanied by her striped and spotted calf.