Another Central American tapir, an endangered species, is born in a Nicaraguan zoo
A Central American tapir, an endangered species, was born at the National Zoo of Nicaragua, an event authorities describe as an achievement for wildlife conservation.
TL;DR
- A male Central American tapir named Valentín was born at the National Zoo of Nicaragua on January 29th.
- The calf weighs 7.7 kilograms and is under veterinary care.
- This is the second tapir birth in captivity in three months, considered a major conservation achievement.
- The birth highlights the success of captive breeding programs for endangered species.
- Nicaragua has an estimated wild population of 350-400 tapirs, but the number is declining due to habitat destruction and hunting.
- Tapir calves can be sold for $800-$1000 in Nicaragua.
- Tapirs have a gestation period of up to 13 months and feed on vegetables, fruits, and herbs.
- Captive tapirs can live 35-40 years, while wild tapirs live an estimated 12-13 years.