This animal that has remained unchanged for 20 million years!
Tapirs are herbivorous mammals that can live up to 30 years and are known for their thick skin, which protects them from predators like jaguars and anacondas
Despite resembling wild hogs with anteater snouts, tapirs are closely related to horses and rhinoceroses
The name "tapir" originates from the Brazilian term for "thick," while in Indonesia, they are called "badak," a term also used for rhinos
Tapirs have remained virtually unchanged for millions of years and have an odd number of toes—four on each front foot and three on each back foot
Their distinctive snout functions like a snorkel underwater and helps them detect odors in dense forests
Tapirs play a crucial role in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds and fertilizing the soil, thereby aiding in nutrient recycling and indicating the health of their environment
There are four species of tapirs, including the Baird’s tapir in Central America and the Malayan tapir in Southeast Asia, which features a unique black and white coat for camouflage
Tapirs primarily inhabit wetlands and forests in regions ranging from Mexico to Southeast Asia, preferring areas with access to water for bathing and eating aquatic plants
Communication among tapirs involves high-pitched whistles and foot stamping, with young tapirs sporting brown and beige stripes that resemble watermelons
Due to their decline from human disturbances and slow reproductive rates, all four tapir species are listed as Endangered or Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, prompting global conservation efforts