Tapir
Tapir
Tapir (/ˈteɪpər/ TAY-pər) is a large, herbivorous mammal, similar in shape to a pig, with a short, prehensile nose trunk. Tapirs inhabit jungle and forest regions of South America, Central America, and Southeast Asia.
Etymology
The word "tapir" is derived from the Tupi language of Brazil, where it is referred to as tapyra. The Tupi word was borrowed into Portuguese and then into English.
Description
Tapirs are characterized by their rounded bodies, short legs, and distinctive snouts. They have four toes on each front foot and three toes on each back foot. The snout, or proboscis, is flexible and can be moved in all directions, allowing the tapir to grab foliage that would otherwise be out of reach.
Species
There are four recognized species of tapirs: the Baird's Tapir, the Mountain Tapir, the Malayan Tapir, and the South American Tapir. All four species are classified as endangered or vulnerable.
Behavior
Tapirs are generally solitary animals, with the exception of mothers and their young. They are primarily nocturnal and spend most of their time foraging for food, which includes leaves, shoots, fruits, and small branches.
Related Terms
- Proboscis: A long, flexible snout or trunk.
- Herbivore: An animal that feeds on plants.
- Nocturnal: Active during the night.
- Endangered Species: A species of animal or plant that is seriously at risk of extinction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tapir
- Wikipedia's article - Tapir
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