Main image via Edinburgh Zoo
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland has released the first snaps of a rare Malayan tapir calf born at Edinburgh Zoo. The unnamed calf was born to mother, Sayang and father, Mowgli on 31st January. He is the eighth tapir calf to arrive at the zoo since 12 years ago.
Image via Edinburgh Zoo
Malayan tapirs are a threatened species as a result of habitat loss and hunting. Hence, the European conservation-breeding programme is crucial to protect them from extinction.
“Malayan tapir populations in the wild are continuing to decline, so all births are incredibly valuable to the breeding programme and we’re really excited about our latest arrival. At the moment, he is staying very close to Sayang but will soon find his feet and start to follow her outside.”, commented Jonny Appleyard, team leader for hoofstock at Edinburgh Zoo.
Image via Irish Examiner
An online poll was set up by Edinburgh Zoo to name the baby calf. Suggestions for these names are inspired by Malay words and places. For instance:
- Penang (Region in Malaysia)
- Haruun (Warrior Lion)
- Bintang (Star)
- Megat (Great)
- Amal (Charity/Hope)
- Bernam (A Malaysian river)
Image via Edinburgh Zoo
Which of the above do you think would suit the calf best?
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