AssetID: 54501649
Headline: The Most Adorable Baby Tapir Has Been Born On America's Pacific Coast
Caption: A rare and endangered Malayan tapir calf was born at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington on 2 February 2025. It is only the second tapir birth in the zoo's 120-year history. The newborn, covered in distinctive white spots and stripes that resemble a tiny, walking watermelon, according to keepers. It is considered healthy and the 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 at the zoo's Asian Forest Sanctuary for now, 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. “We're thrilled to witness this incredible moment and watch the calf grow,” said Curator Telena Welsh.
Keywords: Natural World,Malayan tapir calf,endangered species,Point Defiance Zoo,Tacoma Washington,rare birth,Asian Forest Sanctuary,Yuna the tapir,Baku the tapir,Species Survival Plan,conservation efforts,wildlife protection,zoo veterinary care,tapir gestation,newborn tapir,animal bonding,white spots and stripes,seed dispersers,habitat loss,deforestation,IUCN endangered list
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