Wildlife in Serengeti-ParkLowland Tapir | Tapirus terrestris
Lowland tapirs are light brown to blackish brown. They only have a very thin stubby coat, which is why they can easily get sunburned. If the sun is shining in Serengeti Park, then the Lowland tapirs even get a protective sunscreen from the animal keepers to keep them comfortable. Tapirs can weigh up to 250 kilograms and are 2.5 meters long. They are classified as a vulnerable species on the Red List of endangered species of the World Conservation Union IUCN.
Surely you noticed immediately their trunk-like nose. This allows them to perceive very subtle smells and to feel their surroundings carefully. Tapirs also have a very good sense of hearing. Tapirs live in the tropical rainforests of South America, where they always stay close to water. Here in Serengeti Park you can see them splashing in the water in good weather, they can also swim and dive well. They mark their territory with urine, and communicate with their conspecifics using shrill whistling sounds. They feed on leaves, aquatic plants, buds, twigs and fruits. When a tapir gets used to humans, he loves to be cuddled by them. The animals can relax so wonderfully that they even fall asleep! However, you have to stay alert as tapirs have very strong and long teeth. The oldest tapir in human custody became 35 years old.
