The Malayan Tapir, scientifically known as Tapirus indicus, is typically a solitary animal and is rarely seen in pairs. This species prefers dense, lush environments near water sources. Despite their somewhat bulky appearance, they are excellent swimmers and can remain submerged for hours. In the forest, they create pathways through thick underbrush and regularly use these “traffic routes” year after year. Beneath the dense foliage, they can move surprisingly quickly.
The Malayan Tapir shares some physical traits with domestic pigs: a large, stocky body, short legs, slanted eyes, and a grunting call. However, they differ significantly from domestic pigs in reproductive habits, typically giving birth to a single offspring, with twins being extremely rare.
While domestic pigs are primarily active during the day, the Malayan Tapir is mostly nocturnal. The Tapirus indicus enjoys eating aquatic plants, tender shoots, and low-growing fruits. They are very shy creatures and will flee to water or dense bushes when they sense any threat.
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Young Malayan Tapir |
The Malayan Tapir has distinctive upright ears, thick skin, sparse fur, and a small trunk formed by its upper lip and nose. Its coloration is unique: the front and hind legs are black, while the rest of the body is white. Adult males can reach a body length of about 2 meters; their tails measure around 7.6 cm; and they can weigh approximately 268 kg. Their tusks are long and robust. They do not have a specific breeding season but are pregnant for about 400 days. Young tapirs are born with a different coloration than adults; at birth, they are brown with white stripes and spots along their bodies. This mottled pattern disappears by the time they are 6 to 8 months old. By the age of 3, they reach full maturity.
The Malayan Tapir is becoming increasingly rare due to human activities that destroy their natural habitats.
