Rare, endangered Malayan tapir calf born at Point Defiance Zoo in WA
The Brief
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium celebrated the birth of a rare and endangered Malayan Tapir calf.
The calf is bonding with its mother behind the scenes, and zoo visitors could expect to see it by late spring.
The gender and the name of the calf will be revealed in the coming weeks.
TACOMA, Wash. - Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium celebrated the birth of a Malayan tapir calf over the weekend, marking only the second time in the zoo's 120-year history that this rare and endangered species has been born there.
What we know
According to Head Veterinarian Dr. Karen Wolf, the calf and its parents are both healthy. For now, the calf is staying behind the scenes at the zoo's Asian Forest Sanctuary, where it will bond with its mother.
The newborn is estimated to weigh about 20 pounds. Yuna and Baku, the mother and father, are both 10 years old and weigh about 900 and 800 pounds, respectively.
What they're saying
"We're thrilled to witness this incredible moment and look forward to watching the calf grow," said Curator Telena Welsh.
What's next
According to the zoo, tapir calves usually nurse for about 13 to 14 months. The sex and name of the calf will be revealed in the coming weeks, and guests may get the chance to see it later this spring.
The calf's markings—white spots and stripes—are typical for tapir calves and often resemble a watermelon due to their appearance. When a Malayan tapir becomes an adult, its head turns black with varying colors along its body.
Why you should care
According to the zoo, Malayan tapirs are listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with populations declining due to habitat loss from deforestation and human development. According to A-Z Animals, there are between 3,000 and 4,500 Malayan tapirs left in the world, depending on the species.
Yuna and Baku were paired as part of the Species Survival Plan, a program that helps ensure the genetic diversity and long-term sustainability of Malayan tapirs in human care.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
The Source
Information for this story came from a press release by the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium.
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