The Central American Tapir is the largest terrestrial mammal in the Neotropics and also one of the most ecologically important species. Tapirs have a large impact on the stability of Neotropical forests, and for this reason, they are known as the “Gardeners of the Forest”. Because they disperse a variety of large seeds, tapirs are not only important due to their roles as ecosystem architects but are also one of the strongest allies in our fight against global climate change.
Despite being a charismatic species and one of the most ecologically important animals, this rhino’s cousin is classified as globally endangered. Experts estimate that the current population could have as few as 4,500 adults and currently declining. Due to this, the massive forest loss across most of Central America in the last decade combined within the context of increasing forest loss, continued hunting, and global climate change, tapir populations do not seem to be secure unless we act immediately to mitigate their threats.
Tapirs have been taking care of our forests for millions of years and are saving us from climate change, now it’s our time to help them back.