Nashville Zoo recently imported North America’s first Baird’s tapirs in over three decades. The two tapirs are in an off-exhibit breeding facility until their permanent home is completed.
Romeo, 3, and Houston, 4, arrived at Nashville Zoo in late October. Members of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Tapir Specialist Group chose Nashville Zoo as the best location for the genetically valuable pair. One of the reasons Nashville Zoo appealed to the group was the Zoo’s plan for a multi-million dollar South American expansion that will feature Baird’s tapirs, giant otters, jaguars, howler monkeys and more.
“This historic importation is the result of two years of collaborative work among the governments of Costa Rica, Panama and the United States,” said Zoo President Rick Schwartz. “Romeo and Houston are the most genetically valuable Baird’s tapirs outside of their home range, and we are thrilled that Nashville has been entrusted to care for them. Future offspring from these ‘genetic superstars’ will be sent to zoos across the country to dramatically improve the viability of this remarkable species.”
There are four species of tapir: Baird’s, lowland, mountain and Malayan. All four species are listed as endangered by the IUCN. These herbivores are found in South America and Southeast Asia, but their numbers are declining due to habitat destruction and poaching. Horses and rhinoceroses are the tapir’s closest living relatives. Tapirs are known for their unique prehensile noses, which they use to grab food or even as a snorkel while swimming.
Nashville Zoo is accredited by the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums, assuring the highest standards of animal care and husbandry. The Zoo is a non-profit organization located at 3777 Nolensville Road and is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. The mission of the Nashville Zoo is to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership.
For more information about Nashville Zoo, call 615-833-1534 or visit www.nashvillezoo.org.
