The Mountain Tapir (Tapirus pinchaque), also known as the Andean tapir, is the smallest of the three tapir species. Adults typically measure about 180 to 220 centimeters in body length, excluding the tail, which is very short. They stand approximately 70 to 90 centimeters at the shoulder and weigh between 150 to 250 kilograms. The mountain tapir has a robust, barrel-shaped body, short legs, and a distinctive prehensile snout that helps it grasp and manipulate vegetation. Its fur is typically a dark brown or grayish-brown with a lighter underside.

Habitats & Distribution

The Mountain Tapir is found in the Andes Mountains, ranging from northern Colombia and Ecuador to northern Peru. It inhabits cloud forests, páramo grasslands, and montane forests at altitudes between 2,000 and 4,300 meters above sea level.

Behaviours & Reproduction

Mountain Tapirs are generally solitary and nocturnal, although they can also be active during the day in undisturbed areas. They have well-defined territories marked by urine and feces. Breeding can occur year-round, with a gestation period of about 13 months. Typically, a single calf is born, which stays with its mother for up to a year.

Diet

Herbivorous, feeding mainly on leaves, fruits, and grasses.

Colors

Dark brown, grayish, brown, lighter underside

Fun Facts

Mountain tapirs have a prehensile nose that acts like a fifth limb, allowing them to grasp and pull vegetation.
They are excellent climbers and can navigate steep and rugged mountainous terrain.
Their natural habitat is often cloud forests and high-altitude grasslands, where they are adapted to cooler temperatures.
Mountain tapirs are solitary animals and are known for their elusive nature, making them difficult to observe in the wild.

Conservation Status & Efforts

The Mountain Tapir is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Major threats include habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion, logging, and mining, as well as hunting. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection, establishing protected areas, and creating corridors to connect fragmented habitats. Efforts also include working with local communities to promote sustainable land use practices and increase awareness about the species' plight.