Tapir

Tapir Description

Tapirs are large, pony-sized, hoofed animals and are the largest terrestrial mammal in South America. There are three species in the New World with one species in Asia. More tapir facts are that they have a blackish brown colouration, an elongated downward curving lower lip, and very thick skin. They are solitary animals but non-territorial. Despite a bulky body, they can successfully negotiate tricky terrain, including close-to-vertical slippery hills. The tapir diet consists of grass and fruits found in the forests of South America, the tapir’s natural habitat

Tapir Calls and Defense

Tapir communicate with a whistling sound, which is often mimicked by hunters who attract and shoot them for meat. When surprised, they stamp their feet and rapidly run into water if necessary, flattening everything in their path.

Best Places to See Wild Tapir

A good place to visit for viewing wild tapir is the Manu Wildlife Center.

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