Endangered Malayan Tapir Calf Born
March 06, 2025
A rare and endangered Malayan tapir calf was born at the Point Defiance Zoo on Sunday, February 2, marking only the second tapir birth in its 120-year history.
The newborn, covered in distinctive white spots and stripes that resemble a tiny, walking watermelon, is considered healthy. Mother Yuna, 10, is also doing well, according to Head Veterinarian Dr. Karen Wolf. The calf’s father, Baku, is also 10 years old.
The calf will remain behind the scenes in the Asian Forest Sanctuary, nursing and bonding with Yuna under the observation of the zoo’s veterinary and animal care teams. The calf will receive a veterinary checkup after allowing time for the newborn and Yuna to bond. Officials estimate the newborn to weigh around 20 pounds—a stark contrast to its mom, who almost weighs 900 pounds, and dad, around 800 pounds.
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