Brazilian Tapir

Habitat

Wet forest and grassland.

Wild Diet

Grasses, leaves, buds, soft twigs, fruits of low growing shrubs, aquatic vegetation and green shoots.

Behaviour

The tapir's short, fleshy, trunk-like nose helps the animal to sniff its way through the forest and is a sensitive 'finger' used to pull leaves and shoots towards its mouth. This prehensile snout also makes a great snorkel when the tapirs are bathing. They love water and are excellent swimmers. 

Breeding

A single youngster is born after a gestation of 390 - 400 days (13 months). Baby tapirs have striped and spotted coats for camouflage but they lose their patterns as they grow older. They can live for up to 30 years.

Threats

Habitat destruction and hunting.

Conservation

The best hopes for survival are in forest reserves and in captivity. The captive population in European zoos is managed co-operatively.