* * * * *
THE AMERICAN TAPIR.
There are but three known species of the Tapir, two of which--the
Peccary and the Tapir--are natives of South America, the other of
Sumatra and Malacca. Its anatomy is much like that of the rhinoceros,
while in general form the tapir reminds us of the hog. It is a massive
and powerful animal, and its fondness for the water is almost as strong
as that displayed by the hippopotamus. It swims and dives admirably, and
will remain submerged for many minutes, rising to the surface for
breath, and then again plunging in. When hunted or wounded, it always,
if possible, makes for the water; and in its nightly wanderings will
traverse rivers and lakes in search of food, or for pleasure. The female
is very attentive to her young one, leading it about on the land, and
accustoming it at an early period to enter the water, where it plunges
and plays before its parent, who seems to act as its instructress, the
male taking no share in the work.
The tapir is very common in the warm regions of South America, where it
inhabits the forests, leading a solitary life, and seldom stirring from
its retreat during the day, which it passes in a state of tranquil
slumber.
Pages:
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50