Tapirs of the World
Have you ever heard of tapirs? These unusual animals may not be the most well-known creatures in the world. Still, they are fascinating and important members of many ecosystems across Central and South America and Southeast Asia. With their unique appearance – including a long, flexible snout and a stout, round body – tapirs are a captivating sight to behold.
Sadly, many species of tapir are threatened with extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities. As we learn more about these quirky creatures and their important ecological roles as seed dispersers and herbivores, it’s crucial that we work to protect them and their habitats. So let’s dive into the world of tapirs and discover the amazing things that make them so special!
Malayan tapir
The largest tapir species in the world and the only one found in Asia
Black and white and cute all over! These rotund herbivores love to swim and play, and they’re always up for a good snack.
Bairds tapir
The largest land mammal native to Central and South America
The endangered giants of the jungle. These hefty herbivores play an essential role in their ecosystem by spreading seeds and promoting plant growth with their droppings.
Mountain tapir
The only tapir species found exclusively in the mountains
The elusive and endangered grazers of the Andes. These solitary herbivores are experts at navigating steep terrain but face serious threats from habitat loss and hunting.
Brazilian tapir
Flee and dive into the water when facing a predator and remain deep under the water until the predator leaves
The swimmers of the Amazon. These sleek and graceful herbivores are equally at home on land or in water but face serious habitat loss and hunting threats.
Kabomani tapir
The smallest tapir species in the world, once considered subspecies of the Brazilian tapir
These pint-sized, mysterious miniatures of the Amazon, discovered only recently in 2013, are still shrouded in mystery and face serious threats from habitat loss and hunting.
