Tapir
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Malayan Tapir
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Amazonian tapirs are one of the largest mammals found in South America. They can weigh anywhere between 350 to 600 pounds. Tapirs have thick necks, stumpy tails, and large ears. Short trunks, used for lifting food into their mouths, are also characteristic of the tapir. They are a tan to dark brown color, and have a ridge with a fringe of hair running along the backs of their necks. Baby tapirs are born with spotted and striped coats for camouflage; this will darken as the tapir ages. The 3-4 toes on each foot are spread out to help them navigate on soft, muddy ground. Tapirs have a sharp sense of smell and hearing that help them evade predators.
Tapirs feed each morning and evening. Tapirs are able to cover great distances in the forest and will folow tunnel-like paths to reach water holes and feeding grounds. They are often found near waterways where they can feed, rest and bathe. Tapirs are excellent swimmers. Amazonian tapirs are called browsing herbivores, because they travel to eat leaves and fruit. They love bananas. They will also feed on aquatic plants. Tapirs are widely hunted by indigenous people in the forest. Although they are rather large, tapirs are quite defenseless, and it is believed that pumas, jaguars and alligators may prey on small tapirs. Source: Rainforest Alliance and National Geographic
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