Rare Sightings in Protected Areas Reveal Resurgence of a Believed-Extinct Species: Hidden trail cameras have captured footage of the South American tapir, once thought to be extinct in Brazil’s coastal region for over 100 years, proving that conservation efforts and protected areas can lead to remarkable recoveries.
The South American tapir, once thought to be extinct in Brazil‘s coastal region for over 100 years, has made a historic comeback. Hidden trail cameras have captured footage of the largest land mammal in South America, proving that conservation efforts and protected areas can lead to remarkable recoveries.
The South American tapir, also known as the lowland tapir, is a large mammal native to the tropical regions of Central and South America.
It has a distinctive coat with brown or gray stripes, and its snout is short and blunt.
The South American tapir can grow up to 2.5 meters in length and weigh between 200-300 kilograms.
Its diet consists mainly of leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants.
Unfortunately, the species is threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
A Comeback Years in the Making
The South American tapir was last spotted in the Costa Verde region in 1914, leading many to believe it had vanished forever. However, researchers at Rio de Janeiro’s State Institute of Environment were thrilled when their cameras captured hundreds of images and videos of a ‘South American tapir family’ walking through the lush forests of the Cunhambebe State Park.
The Importance of Protected Areas
This incredible comeback highlights the importance of protected areas in conservation efforts. The Cunhambebe State Park, created in 2008, serves as a sanctuary for species in danger of extinction, allowing essential ecological interactions to occur. As explained by a spokesperson with Rio de Janeiro’s State Institute of Environment, ‘This challenge reflects the importance of protected areas and conservation efforts in the recovery of emblematic species.’
A Win for Biodiversity
The return of the South American tapir is not only exciting news for scientists and conservationists but also a significant win for biodiversity. The restoration of this species will have a positive impact on the ecosystem, supporting healthy interactions between plants and animals. This, in turn, benefits all living beings, including humans, by maintaining essential ecological processes like seed dispersion, population control, and genetic flow.
Conservation Success Stories
This is not an isolated incident; conservation efforts have led to remarkable recoveries of other species, such as the Hawaiian ‘alāla bird, which was once extinct in the wild. ‘Snails’ have also returned to French Polynesia, and the weasel-like fisher has been reintroduced in Pennsylvania.
The Future of Conservation
As we continue to face environmental challenges, it is essential to recognize the importance of protected areas and conservation efforts. By working together, we can ensure that species like the South American tapir thrive, supporting healthy ecosystems and benefiting all living beings.
