Malayan Tapirマレーバク

Species Data

Classification

Perissodactyla / Tapiridae Source

Distribution

Native to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, southern Thailand, and Myanmar; it is the largest tapir species and the only one found outside the Americas. Source

Did You Know?

• Its black-and-white coloration is thought to break up its outline at night, making the animal harder for predators to spot. Source
• Calves under six months old display a distinctive coat of white stripes and spots that differs entirely from the adult pattern. Source
• Listed as Endangered by the IUCN, with fewer than 2,500 mature individuals remaining; oil palm plantation expansion and deforestation are the primary threats. Source

FAQ

Why does the Malayan tapir have black-and-white coloring?

The stark two-tone pattern is thought to break up the animal's outline in dim forest light, making it harder for predators such as tigers to identify it as prey. Source

Is the Malayan tapir endangered?

Yes. The IUCN lists it as Endangered, with fewer than 2,500 mature individuals remaining, mainly due to habitat loss from logging and oil palm plantations. Source

Are baby tapirs the same color as adults?

No. Calves are born with a coat of white stripes and spots for camouflage, which they lose within about six months as the adult black-and-white pattern develops. Source