1. Gestation:
- Sexual maturity is reached at around 3-4 years of age.
- Females give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of about 13-14 months.
2. Birth and Early Life:
- Calves are born with a reddish-brown coat with white stripes and spots, which provides camouflage in the forest.
- The mother tapir stays with the newborn for the first few weeks, providing care and protection.
- Calves nurse from their mothers for several months, gradually becoming more independent as they grow.
3. Weaning and Independence:
- Weaning occurs gradually, and calves may start consuming solid food around 6 months of age.
- By the time the calf is about a year old, it becomes more independent, spending time away from its mother.
4. Juvenile Phase:
- As juveniles, tapirs continue to grow and develop, honing their survival skills.
- They may join other tapirs in small groups or wander alone in search of food.
5. Adulthood and Breeding:
- Tapirs reach sexual maturity between 3-4 years of age.
- Males establish and defend territories, while females have home ranges.
- Mating occurs throughout the year, and females give birth to a single calf every 1.5 to 2 years.
6. Lifespan:
- Malayan Tapirs have a lifespan of around 25-30 years in the wild, although some individuals may live longer under human care.
Throughout their life cycle, Malayan Tapirs face various challenges such as habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts with humans. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival and protection of this endangered species.