Brazilian Lowland Tapir - Five Sisters Zoo

Individuals are dark brown in colour, however, they do have a pale chest and pale patches on their cheeks.

Facts

  • Diet: Herbivore
  • Weight: 136 to 317 kilos.
  • Habitat: wetlands in northern and central South America.
  • Life span: 25 to 30 years.

Adapted to Survive

  • Individuals have thicker skin on their back that help resist the attack of predators.
  • Individuals have a prehensile nose that can be used as a snorkel while swimming or to grab leaves when foraging.
  • Individuals are great swimmers and can walk along the bottom of riverbeds, looking for plants.
  • Individuals have hooved toes, four on the front and three on their back feet; these help them walk through muddy grounds.
  • Individuals can run up to 30 mph.
  • Young tapirs have pale stripes and spots that help them camouflage on the forest floor.

Threats

  • Habitat fragmentation and loss due to deforestation.
  • Poaching

IUCN Conservation Status

Vulnerable

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