This is South American Tapir

About the South American Tapir

The South American Tapir is South America’s largest native land mammal, with adults ranging in size from 300-700 pounds. A tapir’s most notable feature is its unique prehensile nose. Not only can they wiggle their nose, but they can use it to grab leaves when foraging. When swimming, they can even use it as a snorkel! 

Tapirs are important recyclers of nutrients, helping the soil and landscape thrive. Though they are resilient animals who have survived for many millennia, as their populations continue to decline, it is increasingly difficult for them to recover – emphasising the importance of conservation.