Lowland Tapir

At first glance, lowland tapirs can be difficult to categorize. We now know that they are closely related to rhinoceroses. What you wouldn't guess from looking at them is that tapirs are excellent swimmers, capable of crossing even large rivers. Their natural habitat is the rainforest. They feel most at home in swampy areas. Thus, we find the lowland tapir in the dense forests surrounding the Amazon.

The exceptionally peaceful nature of these South American herbivores is remarkable. Their complete trust in humans means we can enter their enclosure without hesitation. Even necessary treatments can be performed without anesthesia. This, of course, avoids unnecessary stress.

Our pair, Ferdinand and Peggy, have regularly blessed us with offspring in recent years. On your next visit, keep an eye out for a little striped creature scampering around the enclosure.