Rare 20-Pound Malayan Tapir Born at Tacoma Zoo

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Point Defiance Zoo celebrates rare Malayan tapir birth - second in 120 years, marking hope for endangered species conservation efforts.

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Baby tapir arrives weighing 20 pounds, contrasting parents Yuna and Baku at 900 and 800 pounds respectively, both aged 10 years.

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Newborn's watermelon-like white spots and stripes pattern helps blend into surroundings before transforming into adult black-white coloring.

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Zoo's Species Survival Plan carefully matched parents Yuna and Baku to maintain genetic diversity among endangered Malayan tapirs.

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Mother and calf bond behind scenes at Asian Forest Sanctuary, with 13-14 month gestation leading to February 2, 2025 birth.

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Head Vet Dr. Karen Wolf confirms healthy mother-calf pair, as baby prepares for 6-month nursing period followed by 12-18 months with mother.

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Curator Telena Welsh expresses excitement as zoo prepares for spring public viewing debut of rare Southeast Asian species.

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Wild Malayan tapir population dwindles between 3,000-4,500 due to deforestation and human development threats.

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Baby's sex and name announcement awaited as these gentle herbivores continue vital role in maintaining forest diversity.

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