World Tapir Day is celebrated on April 27th every year!
Tapirs look something like wild hogs with anteater snouts or trunks, but did you know that they are actually related to horses and rhinoceroses? Yes, we’re not kidding!
Photo via zoo-leipzig.de
According to Live Science, these unique and adorable animals are herbivores, typically consuming fruits and leaves, and they are somewhat a social creature. They graze together in groups called a candle, though they don’t seem to have complex relationships.
The Malayan tapir, is the world’s largest species of tapirs, and is found in Peninsular Malaysia, in Myanmar and Thailand, and on the Indonesian Island of Sumatra.
They are rare animals whose status is close to extinction with just 2,500 left in the wild today. Their habitats are being threatened by deforestation, leaving the tapirs and many other animals struggling to find a place to call home.
Photo via Pinterest
Tapirs have been around for millions of years, and it would be a shame to see them go.
Here are a few ways you can help out, according to The Tapir Movement:
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Help the environment by planting some trees, or help reduce pollution by recycling, use reusable and eco-friendly lunch boxes and grocery bags, help the community clean up your neighbourhood for a cleaner environment.
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Tell others about the Tapir and spread awareness. Help educate the people around you like your family, your colleagues and close friends! Show them that these tapirs are in danger of extinction, and share with them how they can help!
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Be better for the environment. Use public transportation if you can, turn off the lights and electronic devices when not in use, and turn off your water tap while brushing your teeth or washing dishes and reduce the use of single-use plastic bags!
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Be respectful to the tapirs living in the wild, visit the zoo or a tapir conservation centre to learn more about them!
Learn about them, love them and take a stand. Let’s save the tapirs, together! Happy World Tapir Day!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
