Celestýnka, a Brazilian Tapir born this fall at Zoo Brno in the Czech Republic, is getting plenty of exercise these days as he runs, jumps, and plays in his snowy outdoor enclosure.  The calf has grown considerably since he was featured on ZooBorns as a little newborn.

Zoo Brno fans voted to name the chubby little calf, who was born to parents Cusco and Neny.  Celestýnka’s antics have made him a favorite with zoo visitors and staff, as well as a capybara that shares his enclosure (look for this large rodent in the photos).

Photo Credit:  Zoo Brno

Brazilian Tapirs are native to the northern half of South America, where they roam the underbrush of rain forests in the region.  They are often found near waterways and are excellent swimmers.  Tapirs’ aquatic habits make them vulnerable to attacks by crocodiles and anacondas.  Jaguars and cougars prey on Tapirs sleeping on riverbanks. 

Predators are not Tapirs’ only threats: Tapirs are listed as vulnerable to extinction due to large-scale habitat destruction and poaching for their meat and hide.