Three-hundred-kilogram mammals have finally returned to Brazil after being absent for over a century.
Tapirs are regarded as some of the largest terrestrial mammals in South America, with weights reaching an impressive 300 kilograms. However, for more than 100 years, this species has been absent from the Brazilian region—the last official sighting was recorded in 1914, according to IFLScience.
Good news: scientists claim that the lowland tapirs seem to have finally returned to the state of Rio de Janeiro after over a century. The animals were documented by researchers utilizing camera trap technology. The IUCN describes the populations as having "high variability in density," and while it is challenging to obtain an accurate picture of the overall population in South America due to their natural shyness and elusiveness, they are currently classified as vulnerable.
Researchers note that the likely causes of the decline of this species were a combination of factors, including:
- deforestation;
- urbanization;
- hunting;
- vehicle collisions.
Fortunately, in recent years, efforts have been made to return the lowland tapir to its natural habitat. However, scientists believe the return of the animals to the state of Rio de Janeiro was likely spontaneous. Researchers captured footage of the animals using camera traps in the Cunhambebe State Park. The footage confirms that at least four individuals are present in the area, including a mother and her calf.
For an animal that was considered extinct in this area, this spontaneous return underscores the importance of protected reserves. According to biologist Marcelo Cupello from the State Institute of the Environment of Rio de Janeiro, the spontaneous return of tapirs indicates that local forests are once again capable of supporting large mammals.
It is worth noting that tapirs are also vital members of ecosystems: they aid in the dispersal of seeds from many plant species throughout the tropical forests they inhabit. The animals use their snouts to extract plant material and spread seeds through their droppings. Interestingly, these animals are often referred to by scientists as "forest gardeners," as they have the ability to enhance the biodiversity of the areas where they live.