So we managed to make it through another week of interesting and educational Wild Facts (at least I thought they were 🙂 ).  Today’s animal is another one that I thought I had already discussed.  In order to learn about the bizarre Tapir we get to choose which jungle we want to go to.  Our choices are in Central America, South America or Southeast Asia.  We have been hanging out in the Americas quite a bite lately so I think I am going to take a quick flight to Southeast Asia.  You coming?

So what the heck is a Tapir? Your first guess would probably be a pig or something like that, right?  Well, believe it or not the Tapir is actually more closely related to horses and rhino’s.  Even more surprisingly is the fact that this odd animal hasn’t changed in over tens of millions of years.   That is one old species!  Obviously they are doing something right if they have managed to roam the earth for so long.

The first thing you probably notice about this animal is there bizarre trunk-like appendage.  Well that little trunk is simply an extension of their nose and upper lip and they rely heavily on this trunk to clear the leaves from branches or to pick tasty fruit.  If you ever want to find a Tapir then you just need to find their trail.  These ancient animals utilize well traveled trails to get to their feeding grounds or watering holes.  Your best time to see them will either be in the morning or evening as they head out to grab a quick bite.

I mentioned that they like to frequent watering holes and you may be thinking that there is no way this stocky animal likes to swim.  Well my friend, believe it or not the Tapir is actually an impressive swimmer.  They have even been known to dive in order to feed on submerged vegetation.  As well, they have been known to roll around in the mud, just like pigs, which is probably their preferred method for getting rid of ticks.  Obviously this works just fine since they are millions of years old.

Tapir Fast Fact – Even though the Tapir appears to have life figured out and has survived millions of years, it appears they are meeting a formidable challenge called humans.  The four species still in existence are all classed as either endangered or threatened as a result of hunting and habitat loss.  It would be tragic if this ancient animal goes extinct because of us.

Another week is in the books and it is now time to enjoy the weekend so get off your computer and go have some fun.  See you all on Monday!