Learn about our Malayan Tapirs!
Scientific name: Tapirus indicus
Did You Know?
Tapirs love water and are excellent swimmers. They have even been observed using their snouts like snorkels!
Where They Live:
Tapirs can be found living in grassy areas near lakes and rivers in the dense rainforests of Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
What They Eat:
Tapirs use their flexible snouts to grasp saplings, leaves, twigs, and aquatic plants.
How many tapir calves can you find?
Answer Key
Test Your Knowledge! (answers below)
- An average female adult tapir weighs…
a. 200 lbs. b. 500 lbs. c. 800 lbs. d. 1500 lbs.
- To which animals are tapirs most closely related?
a. horses b. pigs c. elephants d. anteaters
- How long does it take a tapir calf to lose its spots and stripes and assume its adult coat coloring?
a. two weeks b. 6-8 months c. one year d. two years
Tapir Calves
Did You Know?
Each tapir calf’s pattern of stripes and spots is unique and helps it hide from predators.
Design your own tapir calf coat pattern so it can hide in your backyard or neighborhood.
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