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Baird's Tapir
Kevin Schafer/CorbisLike its tapir relatives, the Baird's tapir possesses a short trunk made up of its nose and upper lip. This trunk is utilized to collect grasses, leaves, and fruits, which are then delivered to its mouth.
This secretive animal plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, as it tends to spit out fruit seeds instead of consuming them along with the fruit's flesh.
Despite spending much of its time in water or resting in mud, the tapir is remarkably agile and a skilled swimmer.
Tracking the Baird's tapir is relatively straightforward, as it frequently uses the same trails and leaves behind unique three-toed footprints, each toe equipped with a wide hoof.
The species faced extensive hunting for sport, meat, and hide; now, it is further endangered by deforestation caused by agricultural expansion and logging activities.
Animal Facts
Name
Family: Tapiridae (Tapirs)
Range: Southern Mexico to northern Colombia
Habitat: Tropical forests, frequently close to water sources
Diet: Consists of aquatic plants, buds, foliage, young shoots, and dropped fruits
Head and Body Length: 6.5 to 8 feet (2 to 2.4 meters)
Tail Length: 3 to 5 inches (7 to 13 centimeters)
Shoulder Height: 36 to 47 inches (91 to 120 centimeters)
Weight: 551 to 661 pounds (250 to 300 kilograms)
Life Cycle: Breeding occurs throughout the year; pregnancy lasts 390 to 405 days, typically resulting in a single calf, with twins being rare
Description: Features dark brown, coarse, short hair; grayish-yellow cheeks and throat; oval-shaped ears with white edges; a slender, elongated mane; a compact, muscular trunk; sturdy, short legs; and a thick, short tail
Conservation Status: Endangered
Major Threat(s): Destruction and fragmentation of habitats; illegal hunting
What Can I Do?: Check out the Tapir Preservation Fund to learn about ways you can contribute to their conservation.
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