TAMPA, Fla. – ZooTampa at Lowry Park announced Friday the birth of an endangered Malayan tapir (pronounced TEY-per) calf.
The yet-unnamed calf was born during the overnight hours between Monday, March 26, and Tuesday, March 27, after an approximately 13-month gestation period; both the calf and mom “Ubi” are doing well and are healthy and thriving.
The baby calf, with a distinctive coat featuring both spots and stripes, is busy bonding and nursing alongside the experienced mother, 18-year-old Ubi. The calf’s patterning will slowly change over the first six months of life to mirror the unique black-and-white pattern of its parents, Ubi and Albert.
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Ubi was paired with 13-year-old male Albert as part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensuring the survival of protected, threatened, and endangered species. ZooTampa currently participates in more than 100 SSP programs.
“The birth of this healthy calf is another wonderful example of the Zoo’s commitment to the conservation of endangered species,” said Chris Massaro, Senior VP, Zoological Operations. “Malayan tapirs are endangered, and any addition is a significant conservation achievement. Our goal is that when guests see these amazing animals that they will connect with them in ways that inspire action to save the world’s endangered wildlife.
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The species is listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Only an estimated 2,500 remain scattered in Thailand, Malaysia and on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Their population is declining due to habitat loss from deforestation for agricultural purposes, flooding caused by dam building for hydroelectric projects, and illegal trade. The Malayan tapir is related to both the horse and the rhinoceros.
One important way that guests can help tapirs and other species is to purchase items made from sustainably sourced palm oil. Sustainable palm oil production follows environmental standards to help keep the forest healthy.
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