Baird’s tapir (or Tapirus bairdii) is an endangered mammal native to the woodlands of Central America. It’s one of five species of tapir – four of which live in Central and/or South America. Males and females are similar sizes, although females are slightly larger, and both have a dark brown to black coat, as well as a pale chin and chest when fully grown. Calves, meanwhile, are tan with white spots and stripes; their colouration provides them with camouflage in the dappled light of the woodland where they live.
Latin Name
Tapirus bairdii
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Animal Facts
Baird's tapir is the largest land mammal in Central America.
The closest evolutionary relative of the tapir is the rhino.
A group of tapirs is known as a 'candle'.
Tapirs are important seed dispersers in their environment due to their varied diet and wide-ranging foraging behaviour.
Tapirs are excellent swimmers and spend large parts of their day in water. When swimming, they can use their prehensile snout as a snorkel.