CHAPTER VIII. 



TAPIRS have the general form of the hog, but they are 

 distinguished from it at first sight by a little fleshy 

 proboscis, susceptible of being lengthened out or with- 

 drawn. This proboscis is not like that of the elephant, 

 an organ of prehension. 



There are many species of the tapir. One called 

 the American Tapir, is common enough in the hot 

 countries of South America. Another is met with in 

 the most elevated regions of the Cordilleras, and the 

 Andes. A third inhabits the forests of the island of 

 Sumatra, and the peninsula of Malacca. 



The American Tapir, seen on the borders of rivers, 

 hides itself during the day in the midst of the thickest 

 bushes, and seeks its food, which is entirely vegetable, 

 at night. It has a preference for water-melons and 

 citrons. It goes but a very small distance from the 

 spot where it has established its dwelling. It is a very 

 timid animal, and the least noise frightens it ; and it 

 seeks out the most profound solitudes. 



