TAPIR.—Tapirus terrestris. 
The common or American TAPIR, sometimes called the Mbérebi, is a native of tropical 
America, where it is found in great numbers, inhabiting the densely wooded regions that 
fringe the banks of rivers. It is a great water- lover, and can swim or dive with 
perfect ease. Although a large animal, being nearly four feet in height, and very strongly 
made, it falls a victim to many destroyers, ihe eae being the most terrible of its enemies. 
It is said that when the jaguar leaps upon the Tapir's s back, the affrighted animal rushes 
through the brushwood in hopes of sweeping away its deadly foe, and if it be fortunate 
enough to gain the river's bank, will plunge into the water, and force the jaguar, who is 
no diver, to relinquish his hold. The tough, thick hide, with which the Tapir is covered 
is of great service in enabling the animal to pursue its headlong course through the forest 
without suffering mjury from the branches. When it runs, it carries its head very low, 
as does the wild boar under similar circumstances. 
In disposition the Tapir is very gentle, and does not attack human beings except when 
wounded and driven to bay. It then becomes a fierce and determined opponent, and is 
capable of inflicting severe wounds with its powerfu] teeth. The hunter's dogs are often 
dangerously w ounded by the teeth of the despairing Tapir. The voice of the Tapir is a 
curious shrill kind of whistling sound, which is but seldom uttered. The senses of the 
animal are very acute, and its. sight, hearing, and scent appear to be equally sensitive. 
During the daytime it is seldom seen, preferring to lie quietly hidden in the deep 
underwood during the hotter hours of the day, and to emerge at night in order to obtain 
food and meet its. companions. The nocturnal j journeys which the Tapir will make are of 
considerable extent, and the animal proceeds straight onwards, heedless of bank or river, 
surmounting the one and swimming the other w ith equal ease. The food of the Tapir is 
generally of a vegetable nature, and. consists of young branches and various wild fruits, 
such as gourds and melons. 
