Brazilian Tapir
In the wild
Scientific name: Tapirus terrestris
Status: Classified as Vulnerable
Distribution: Wide range throughout the rainforests of Tropical South America
Type: Mammal
Diet: Herbivore
At Marwell Wildlife
Marwell's three Brazilian tapirs eat a mixture of fruit, vegetables, concentrate pellets, hay and browse. They are laid back and friendly creatures that enjoy roaming around their field or swimming in their pool.
About Brazilian Tapirs
The Brazilian tapir, also known as the Lowland tapir, is mainly found in Tropical rainforests. Their most discernible feature is their flexible proboscis, which is made up of their nose and upper lip, and is used to strip vegetation and pluck fruits.
The tapir spends the day in cover and comes out at night to browse on vegetation. They are good swimmers and spend a lot of time in water to avoid predators.
Tapirs are generally solitary unless they are mating. The tapir calf has a unique appearance, with white spots and stripes patterning their dark coats and are often referred to as 'humbug striped'! The calf stays with the mother for up to 7 months before it is fully independent.
The main threat for Brazilian tapirs is loss of habitat from deforestation and competition with domestic livestock. Due to their large size, they are also being increasingly hunted for game meat is South America, and their hides can be used to make sandals.
Adopt a Brazilian Tapir from £50.00
Our General Adoption scheme includes all this:
- A special Adoption Certificate
- Recognition at your adopted animal's home
- A photo of a Brazilian Tapir
- A day pass to Marwell Wildlife
- An annual subscription to Marwell News
- Brazilian Tapir fact sheet
- Presentation folder
- Access to online Adopters Zone
- Car sticker
Want to help even more? Choose Premium Adoption below!