It is easy to see that the tapir (Tapirus terrestris), with its heavy body and short legs, is related to the rhinoceros and, like its cousins, it enjoys regular mud baths to rid itself of parasites. A creature of habit, the Brazilian tapir will always take the same route to its favourite wallowing hole, creating a well-trodden path easily followed by predators. It is listed as endangered but is still hunted for meat and for its tough hide. The tapir is quite at home in the water, plunging into the river to escape predators and perhaps staying a while to browse on aquatic vegetation.
A shrill call from a tapir expresses fear but the male also uses squealing and clicking to attract his mate. Generally a single young is born, staying with its mother for about two years. The juveniles have striking pale markings on a chestnut brown background, providing excellent camouflage.
