Ecology and Conservation of the Baird's Tapir in Mesoamerica

Abstract

The Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii) is one of four extant tapir species in the world and has evolved very little since its Pleistocene ancestors. The Baird's tapir inhabits the tropical forests and savannahs from Mexico and Central America and is the largest native mammal in the region. Yet, despite roaming on Earth for millions of years, Baird's tapir populations have dramatically declined in the last few decades because of habitat degradation, unsustainable hunting, road development, and global warming. To protect tapirs’ dwindling populations across their range, conservation strategies include working with local communities who co-exist with them, increasing awareness towards tapir conservation and mediating educational activities, addressing the drivers of habitat loss, and gaining more understanding of their ecological needs. Ultimately, maintaining large tracts of undisturbed habitat is crucial for the long-term conservation of this charismatic yet imperiled species.