Bioparc Fuengirola celebrates a new milestone in the history of the birth of the only Malayan tapir born in Spain: The little chick has already begun to come out into the outdoor enclosure, where she can be seen by park visitors. This outing marks a key stage in her development, reflecting her good health and the excellent progress she has shown since birth.
For a few days now, the cub has been exploring this new environment. under the watchful eye of his mother, Rawa, under the constant supervision of the park's technical team. Her curious and lively behavior is a sign that she is adapting smoothly to this new phase. The interaction between mother and daughter is very positive, contributing to the emotional balance and well-being of both.
The exit to the outside is being carried out in a progressive and controlled manner., always taking into account the animal's needs and reactions. For the time being, Rawa and the baby remain in one part of the outdoor enclosure, while the male, Mekong, is in a separate area.
Female Malayan tapirs typically prefer to stay away from males when birth time approaches and during the first few months while they care for their young. For this reason, it's necessary to separate the male from the female to provide peace of mind for the female. To achieve this, we've installed a fence dividing the facility into two areas, maintaining this separation for the first few months of the baby's life. Once the female accepts the male again, the fence will be removed and the facility will return to its normal state.
In their first weeks, the pups are especially vulnerable and need a calm environment where they can adapt and grow stronger without stress. They remain with their mother, who provides them with all the care and food they need. This temporary separation also allows the care teams and veterinarians to closely monitor the pup's development, ensuring it grows healthy and protected.
La first time outdoors has been quite an event For the park team, who closely followed every step of the process, it was also a real surprise for the visitors who were enjoying the experience at the time. Since then, the little one has begun to discover every corner of her habitat, while always keeping an eye on her mother.
Furthermore, Bioparc Fuengirola confirms that the offspring is a femaleAt this early stage of life, it sports the characteristic spotted fur that distinguishes it from adults. This appearance, which serves as camouflage in nature, It only lasts for the first few months, before transforming into the striking black and white pattern typical of adult Malayan tapirs.
The birth of this baby has international significance: eIt is the only one that has taken place in Spain y one of only 24 registered worldwide within conservation programs over the last ten years. This is not only good news for the park, but also a step forward in the fight to preserve this critically endangered species, which There are less than 2.500 specimens left in the wild.
Bioparc Fuengirola will soon launch an open call so that all those who wish to do so can participate in the selection of the name of this tiny Malayan tapir. An opportunity to get involved in this exciting chapter of conservation and wildlife.
