The Lowland tapir is also known as the South American tapir because they live in – yes, you guessed it – South America. You’d know a Lowland tapir if you saw one, from their mohican-like mane, and their short trunk which they actually use like a snorkel when swimming!
They are very gentle, docile creatures, who hide in water when threatened. They’re so shy that we actually have no idea how many of them there are in the wild. Not even an estimate! We know that they are rare in some places and may actually be extinct in certain areas. We also know that they are threatened – the species is definitely decreasing in numbers, and they are currently classed as “Vulnerable”. This gentle creature needs our help before population numbers become drastically low.
That’s why we’re working with our partner organisation
WildCare Institute to create a perfect home for the Lowland tapir and give them a much needed helping hand.