Tough Skin: Tapirs possess thick and leathery skin that provides some protection against predators. The skin is often loose, allowing them to move quickly and flexibly while evading attacks.
Body Odor: Tapirs are widely known for their distinct and pungent body odor. They have large glands located near the rump and on their back that secrete a strong-smelling substance. The odor repels various animals, including predators and insects.
Camouflage: Tapirs have a coloration that helps them camouflage in their forest habitats. Their colors can range from dark brown to black and include patterns like spots or stripes. These patterns help them blend in with the surrounding foliage and evade predators.
Behavior: Tapirs are generally shy and solitary animals, which lowers the chances of encountering predators. They have excellent senses, such as hearing and smelling, which allow them to detect potential threats early. Tapirs tend to avoid areas with a high presence of predators and prefer dense forests for shelter and protection.
Retractable Nose: The South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris) possesses a unique retractable nose that they use in various ways. One function of this specialized nose is defense. Tapirs can use their noses to strike predators, such as jaguars, inflicting injuries and preventing further attacks.
Defensive Actions: When cornered or threatened, tapirs may engage in defensive actions, such as biting or kicking. Their strong jaws and sharp teeth can cause significant injuries to attackers. Additionally, tapirs have powerful legs that they may use to deliver powerful kicks to deter predators.
Despite these defense mechanisms, tapirs are still vulnerable to predation by large cats, crocodiles, and anacondas in their natural habitats. Their conservation status varies among species, and some tapir species are threatened due to habitat loss and poaching.