Tapirus terrestris
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
The Brazilian or lowland tapir at Howletts are popular with visitors and keepers alike. We are currently home to one male tapir who can often be seen enjoying his pool in the summer months and warming up in his cosy shed in the winter.
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Brazilian tapirs have remained virtually unchanged for over 20 million years. A relative of the horse and the rhinoceros, tapirs are mainly active at night and use their prehensile upper lip to browse on aquatic plants, twigs, foliage and fruit.
Females give birth to a single calf, after about 13 months. Youngsters are born with stripes and spots on their coats, which help keep them hidden against the forest backdrop.
Come and meet the family!
We care for over 400 animals across 50 species. Our expert keepers look after the incredible animals that call our 100 acre park home, day in and day out and welcome you to take a peek into a world where the animals really do come first.
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