Main image via Twitter
It’s a challenging time for Malaysian citizens as our country is currently facing severe weather conditions with floods occurring and many homes destroyed.
After continuous heavy downpour on Friday (Dec 17), rivers overflew rapidly and submerged many urban, suburban and rural areas.
Sadly, people are not the only ones who are suffering from the unexpected natural disaster – animals too were seen stranded and worse, found dead.
Image via Malay Mail
Just recently, a pair of endangered Malayan tapirs were spotted wandering around the flooded streets in Pahang. From the footage, the pair seem to consist of an adult tapir and the other appears to be its calf.
The poor animals looked lost and confused, and seemed scared when humans approached them.
Those who watched the footage of the two tapirs on social media, expressed hope that the animals would be safe.
Sadness washed over us after watching the video – it looked like the baby tapir hopelessly followed its mama, not knowing where to go.
Aidil Iman, a nature advocate urged people to alert the wildlife department or PERHILITAN if they encounter wild animals stranded or wandering about in the floods.
“This is very sad,” Iman said. “Wildlife sightings in human areas are increasing because of the floods. They must feel lost & confused. I know things are overwhelming right now but if you see any wildlife stuck in drains, trapped somewhere or in need of help, please contact PERHILITAN!”
“Poor wildlife, they lost their homes too,” said Twitter user @Changing_shade, who shared the video.
“Are those tapirs?” a man was heard saying off-camera as the animals moved towards him before running away. “They look so big!”
Apart from the tapirs, residents impacted by the flood also spotted other reptiles such as snakes and crocodiles roaming around the streets or entering their homes. That is very dangerous!
It’s so devastating to see the amount of destruction the natural phenomenon caused humans and wildlife in Malaysia.
We really hope that the lost tapirs and other animals will manage to find their way home safely. However, everyone is advised to be very aware of wild animals (especially the threatening ones) since the flood water is just starting to recede. Wild animals may still be wandering around the streets or hiding in your residential area.
If you spot them, please call The Department of Wildlife and National Parks of Peninsular Malaysia (PERHILITAN) immediately at 03-9086 6800.
Alternatively, you may contact Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (Jabatan Bomba Dan Penyelamat) at 03-8892 7600.2
Info via Coconuts KL