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Tapirus indicus
The Malayan Tapir is largest of the four species and is easily identified by its markings, most notably the light-colored “patch” which extends from its shoulders to its rear. The rest of its hair is black, except for the tips of its ears which, as with other tapirs, are rimmed with white. This pattern is for camouflage: the disrupted colouration makes it more difficult to recognize it as a tapir, and other animals could mistake it for a large rock rather than a form of prey when it is lying down to sleep.
The only tapir native to Asia. It was once found throughout the tropical lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam but is now in danger of becoming extinct like all other tapir. Because of their size, tapirs have few natural predators, and even reports of killings by tigers are scarce. The main threat to the Malayan tapirs is human activity, including deforestation for agricultural purposes, flooding caused by the damming of rivers for hydroelectric projects, and illegal trade.
© Emma Simpson. All Rights Reserved.
1 Comment
Though they appear densely built, tapirs are at home in the water and often submerge to cool off. Great series and Happy World Tapir Day 2013!