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 |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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