What are tapirs? An updated explanation of their characteristics, ecology, and habitat. Malayan tapirs, American tapirs…

What kind of animals are the tapirs that appear on the pages of illustrated books? We will introduce and explain its characteristics, ecology, and habitat. It is said to have the most primitive characteristics among the existing ungulates, and its appearance is also very primitive. Many of them are kept in zoos and we will explain them to you.

What is Tapirs ? About basic status

Tapirs are animals belonging to the family Tapir, which is included in the mammalian order Perissodactyla. The body length is 130 to 250 cm and the weight is 110 to 300 kg. The scientific name is Taipiridae. These animals have primitive traits and are kept and exhibited in many zoos. Because of its popularity, images can often be found on web pages. The English word is Tapir, and the Kanji is “Baku.” Tapir is said to be an animal that eats dreams.

Japanese（和名）	バク
English（英名）	Tapir
scientific name(学名)	Taipiridae
classification（分類）	Mammalia、 Perissodactyla、Tapiridae 哺乳綱、奇蹄目、バク科
IUCN Status(保全状況)	ENDANGERED
Length（体長）	130～250cm
Weight（体重）	110～300kg

What are the roots and origins of the tapir?

The roots of the tapir trace back to primitive odd-toed ungulates (perissodactyls) that appeared during the Eocene epoch, approximately 50 million years ago.

Origins and Evolutionary Timeline

Approximately 50 million years ago

Ancestors of modern tapirs appeared in the Northern Hemisphere (particularly around North America and Europe).

These early ancestors were smaller than modern tapirs and inhabited forests.

Approximately 30 to 20 million years ago

Members of the odd-toed ungulate group spread across the globe.

The tapir lineage adapted to forest environments and evolved a physiology suited for a plant-based diet.

From approximately 10 million years ago onwards

Tapirs that had evolved in North America migrated to South America.

They became the ancestors of the modern South American tapir and Central American tapir.

Why do they have a “long nose”?

The tapir’s distinctive feature—a shape formed by the extension of the nose and upper lip—is an adaptation to life in the forest.

To grasp tree leaves

To eat aquatic plants

To detect scents

…they evolved a flexible, mobile “small nose” (proboscis).

Modern Tapir Species

Currently, four to five species are recognized.

Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus)
→ Inhabits Southeast Asia; characterized by a black-and-white pattern.

South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris)
→ Inhabits the forests of South America.

Baird’s tapir (Tapirus bairdii)
→ Inhabits Central America.

Mountain tapir (Tapirus pinchaque)
→ Inhabits the Andes Mountains.

About classification

There is actually more than one species of Tapiridae. There are many subspecies. The following subspecies of Tapir exist. Each has a long history on Earth. Below is a list of the main wild species, including the Malayan tapir. Be careful, as some species are aggressive. They are nocturnal and have differences in their front and back legs.

Name (名前)	Academic Name （学名）
Baird’s tapir ベアードバク	Tapirus bairdii
Malayan tapir マレーバク	Tapirus indicus
Mountain tapir ヤマバク	Tapirus pinchaque
South American tapir アメリカバク	Tapirus terrestris

What is Baird Tapir?

Baird’s tapir lives in Central and South America. They have been drastically reduced due to habitat destruction due to development and hunting, and are listed on CITES Appendix I, making them an endangered species.

What is Malayan tapir?

The Malayan tapir inhabits Sumatra Island in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, etc., and has been drastically reduced due to habitat destruction due to development and hunting, and is listed in Appendix I of the CITES and is designated as an endangered species. I am.

What is mountain tapir?

The mountain tapir is a subspecies that lives in Ecuador and Colombia. They have been drastically reduced due to habitat destruction due to development and hunting, and are listed on CITES Appendix I, making them an endangered species. Already extinct in Venezuela.

What is the American tapir?

The American tapir lives in South America, including Argentina, Chile, and Brazil. Due to habitat destruction due to deforestation and competition with livestock, this species is in sharp decline and is listed in Appendix II of the Washington Convention and is designated as an endangered species.

About tapir habitat

Tapirs are found in the forests of Central and South America, China, and Southeast Asia. Although they are widely distributed, they are endangered species in each region. They are rarely seen because they live at night, from young to adults.

1. Geographic Distribution

Each species of tapir has a different habitat. Here are four common species:

① Malayan Tapir (Tapirus indicus)

Region: Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Southern Thailand, Southern Myanmar

Characteristics: The only species living in tropical rainforests

② South American Tapir (South American Tapir)

Brazilian Tapir / Central American Tapir (Tapirus terrestris)

Region: South American tropical rainforests, including Brazil, Venezuela, and Peru

Environment: Tropical rainforests and wetlands

③ Venezuelan Tapir / Andean Tapir (Tapirus pinchaque)

Region: The Andes Mountains of Colombia, Ecuador, and Venezuela

Environment: Mountain forests at altitudes of 1,000-3,500 meters

④ Baby Tapir / Honduran Tapir (Tapirus bairdii)

Region: Central America (southern Mexico, Honduras, Costa Rica, etc.)

Environment: Tropical rainforests and humid forests

2. Environmental Characteristics

Mainly tropical rainforests and humid forests

Prefers habitats near rivers and wetlands, where it bathes in water and mud.

Eats grass and fruit in areas densely populated by trees and shrubs.

3. Habitat Conditions

Near water sources: To regulate body temperature, protect the skin, and prevent parasites.

Areas with little human activity: Avoid the impacts of deforestation and agricultural development.

Large habitat: Needs a wide range of movement to find food.

4. Habitat Status

Due to deforestation and poaching, many species are listed as endangered.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists most tapirs as vulnerable to endangered.

feature is? What kind of creature is it?

Tapirs have a stocky body, hard skin, short limbs, and a short tail. The tip of its snout is sensitive, and its body is densely covered with short, soft hairs that are dark brown or grey-brown in color. Tapirs often live in forested areas, but can also be found in rivers and lakes. When a natural enemy approaches, they flee into the water. They are very good swimmers and can walk across water. They usually live alone or with friends in forests or waterside areas.

1. Physical Characteristics

Size: Approximately 1.8-2.5m in length, approximately 90-120cm in height, approximately 150-400kg in weight (depending on species)

Body Type: Stocky body, short legs, rounded head

Nose/Mouth: The tip of the nose is elongated, forming a short, elephant-like snout (proboscis)

Convenient for picking food and gathering grass and fruit

Skin/Hair: The hair is short and can be black, brown, white, or spotted depending on the species

Ears/Eyes: Small ears, eyes located on the sides of the head for alertness

2. Diet

Herbivore

Eats branches, leaves, grass, fruit, aquatic plants, etc.

Feeding Method: Dexterously grasps food with its long snout

Hydration: Drinks water frequently near water

3. Behavior/Lifestyle

Nocturnal or crepuscular, active in the evening or at night

Enjoys bathing in water and mud, which they use to regulate body temperature and prevent parasites

Movement: Travels over wide areas in search of food

4. Sociality

Generally solitary or parent-child units

Males may fight over territory

Multiple individuals may gather around water or safe areas

What will your personality look like?

Tapirs have a very docile and laid-back personality. They also love to take naps, and as you can see when you go to the zoo, they often sleep peacefully. They often lie down and sleep, defenseless, and are sometimes targeted by natural enemies.

1. Basic Personality

Timid and cautious

Although their eyesight is not particularly good, their hearing and sense of smell are well-developed, allowing them to quickly flee when they sense danger.

Gentle and gentle

They generally only attack when necessary and are generally laid-back.

2. Sociality

They are primarily solitary creatures.

Males, in particular, have territories and rarely come into contact with other males.

Living in mother-child units.

Females stay with their young and protect them from danger.

They may form small groups near water or in safe places.

3. Relationships with Humans

Timid and not aggressive, but may charge if cornered.

At zoos, they tend to be calm once they become accustomed to their environment.

What is the ecology of tapirs?

Tapirs are herbivorous, eating grasses, fruits, leaves and buds of trees, but also aquatic plants. The breeding season is year-round, and the gestation period is about one year. Females can give birth to one cub at a time. Children reach sexual maturity in 2 to 4 years. Lifespan is 25 to 30 years.

1. Living Environment

Habitat: Tropical rainforests and humid forests in Central and South America (Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, etc.) and Southeast Asia (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, etc.)

Prefers to be near water: Bathing in water and mud helps regulate body temperature and protect against parasites

Requires a wide range of movement: Moves to find food

2. Diet

Herbivore

Eats leaves, grass, fruit, and aquatic plants.

Feeding Method: Uses a short, elephant-like trunk to skillfully pick leaves and fruit.

Hydration: Drinks water near water

3. Behavior

Nocturnal or crepuscular, active in the evening or at night

Movement: Travels over a wide area in search of food and water

Rest: Rests in dense jungles and bushes during the day

Bathing in water and mud: Important for regulating body temperature and protecting against parasites

4. Sociality

Generally solitary

Male-female unit life: Offspring stay with their mothers

Male territorial disputes may occur

Multiple individuals may gather near water or other safe areas

5. Breeding and Rearing

Breeding Season: Varies by season, but breeding is possible year-round in tropical areas

Gestation Period: Approximately 13 months

Birth: Gives birth to a single offspring

Rearing: The mother nurses and protects the offspring for about a year

6. Lifespan

Wild: Approximately 25-30 years

Captive: May live for more than 30 years

Do tapirs have natural enemies?

The tapir’s natural enemies are animals such as crocodiles, jaguars, and tigers. When approached by an enemy, they often flee into the water.

Vocalizations

Common vocalizations include the following:

“Piiiii” / “Kiii”

A high-pitched, sharp, whistle-like sound.

They often make this sound when startled, when calling to others, or to signal danger.

“Kurururu” / “Buu-buu”

Used for communication between parents and offspring or among members of the group.

Low growl

Produced when the animal is on alert or acting aggressively.

They are particularly well-known for a high-frequency, whistle-like call. It is so high-pitched that humans might mistake it for a bird’s call, and in the forest, the sound can seem to come from unexpected directions.

Seasonal Activities

While tapir activity patterns vary slightly by region (South America, Central America, and Southeast Asia), they are fundamentally animals that remain active year-round in tropical forests and wetlands. They do not hibernate.

Spring (March–May)

A period of increased activity

Increased rainfall leads to abundant vegetation, resulting in higher food intake

They frequently feed on new shoots, tender leaves, and aquatic plants

Breeding activity is observed in some regions

Activity increases during the night and at dawn

Especially in forests, they may expand their range as new plant growth emerges after the rain.

Summer (June–August)

A period of increased time spent near water

They enter rivers, ponds, and swamps to escape the heat

They are skilled swimmers and regulate their body temperature in the water

They take mud baths to ward off parasites and stay cool

Nocturnal and crepuscular (active at dawn and dusk) behaviors become more pronounced

Because tapirs have large bodies and sparse fur, water sources serve as vital places to cool off.

Autumn (September–November)

A period of heavy feeding

In regions where fruit ripens, they consume large quantities of fruit

They utilize a wide variety of food sources, including tree leaves, twigs, and aquatic plants

While they do not face the severe food shortages seen in winter, they adjust their range in preparation for environmental changes

By eating fruit and dispersing seeds, they also influence the distribution of forest plants.

Winter (December–February)

Varies by region

Tapirs in South America and Central America

Remain active as usual in tropical regions

Utilize warm areas and water sources

Activity centers around the night

Malayan tapirs in Southeast Asia

Experience minimal seasonal change

Move in response to fluctuations in vegetation caused by the wet and dry seasons

*As tapirs are not adapted to cold climates, they do not hibernate or undergo significant changes to their coat for winter.

Daily Activity Rhythm

Tapirs generally follow this routine:

🌙 Night to dawn: Active
↓
☀️ Daytime: Resting, bathing, and spending time quietly in the forest Key behaviors:

🌿 Foraging

💧 Bathing

👃 Scent-based territorial marking

🚶 Moving through the forest

🐾 Solitary behavior (generally living alone)

Known as “forest cleaners,” tapirs play a vital role in seed dispersal as they feed on fruits and plants throughout the seasons.

Walking Speed

While tapirs (Tapirus) usually move at a leisurely pace, they are capable of running quite fast when necessary.

Normal Walking Speed

Approximately 2–5 km/h

They move slowly through the forest while foraging for plants.

They are adept at moving silently through dense jungle.

Brisk Walking / Travel Speed

Approximately 6–10 km/h

They increase their speed when sensing danger or traveling long distances.

Running Speed

Up to approximately 30–40 km/h

Although they are large animals weighing 200–300 kg, they are quite agile over short distances.

In the forest, rather than running in a straight line, they flee by charging forward while dodging obstacles.

Skilled Swimmers

Tapirs possess impressive aquatic abilities in addition to their land-based skills;

They can swim across rivers,

Walk underwater,

And escape into the water when in danger.

About Tapir Baby

Let’s take a look at tapir baby details.

1. Birth

Gestation Period: Approximately 13 months

Size at Birth: Approximately 5-15 kg (depending on species), approximately 70-100 cm in length

Appearance: Spotted or striped fur serves as camouflage

Early Characteristics: Short snout, horns and fangs not yet developed

2. Growth

Starts Walking: Stands up immediately after birth and follows its mother

Lactation Period: Raised on breast milk for approximately 6-12 months

Post-Weaning: Learns to eat leaves and grass while becoming independent

Maturity: Depending on species, males reach sexual maturity at 3-4 years of age, and females at 2-3 years of age

3. Relationship with Mother

Grows under the mother’s protection and is protected from danger and predators

Learns how to move and forage from their mother

They have little contact with individuals other than their mother and calf, but may temporarily gather at watering holes

4. Personality/Characteristics

Timid and cautious

Dependent on their mother and quick to hide when they sense danger

Curious, but lacking in physical strength and athletic ability

Are tapirs an endangered species?

As explained above, most tapirs are endangered species. It is also listed in the Washington Convention, and transactions are classified and strictly restricted. The reasons for this are as follows. We are in a critical situation.

illegal hunting

Although tapirs are internationally protected, illegal hunting for their meat continues in many parts of the world. As a result, the population has not recovered at all. Tapir meat seems to be selling well, but it seems like they are not getting enough control.

habitat destruction

Habitat destruction is also a problem. In Asia in particular, rapid land development is progressing, creating a very harsh environment. They are now protected on a limited basis in zoos and national parks. Conservation events are also being held around the world.

Can tapirs be bred?

Tapirs are not very suitable for breeding because they are huge animals and are designated as an endangered species, so there are many restrictions. These animals require more protection than other animals, and urgent action is needed. It is safe to see the actual tapirs on site.

1. Legal and Management Restrictions

Tapirs are designated as an endangered species, and international trade is restricted by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Even in Japan, private ownership is not permitted by law.

Only organizations with special permission, such as zoos, conservation facilities, and research institutions, are permitted to keep them.

2. Ecology and Difficulty of Raising

Large and Powerful

Weighting between 150 and 400 kg, they require sturdy fencing and safety management.

They require a large living space.

They must navigate and search for food in forests and near water.

Their diet is unique.

They must have a diverse diet, including branches, leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants.

They are timid and sensitive to stress.

Captivity and changes in environment can lead to illness and loss of appetite.

3. Examples of Captivity

They are kept in zoos around the world, with spacious grounds, water areas, and mud baths.

They are kept in many zoos in Japan (including Ueno Zoo and Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens).

In captivity, they undergo strict nursing, dietary management, health management, and safety measures.