MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — The Minnesota Zoo is celebrating its very own historic birth. The zoo welcomed the first Malayan tapir calf born in more than 20 years.
The newborn female tapir was born at approximately 9:15 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, after being carried by her mother for 419 days.
The mother, named Bertie, and her new calf are doing well. For now, the calf is off exhibit with its mother but can be seen on a special webcam.
At birth, Malayan tapir calves are typically between 10-20 pounds. They grow quickly and can weigh as much as 450 pounds by their first birthday. Tapirs will reach adult size in about two to three years.
The Malayan tapir is one of the most endangered animals in Southeast Asia.