The birth of a rare Malayan tapir calf at Point Defiance Zoo in Tacoma is a remarkable event, occurring for only the second time in the zoo's 120 years. The calf, estimated to weigh around 20 pounds, is currently bonding with its mother, Yuna, in a behind-the-scenes area of the Asian Forest Sanctuary. Both parents, Yuna and Baku, are healthy and weigh approximately 900 and 800 pounds, respectively. Head Veterinarian Dr. Karen Wolf confirmed that the calf and its parents are being carefully monitored by the zoo’s veterinary staff.

Zoo officials anticipate that visitors will have the opportunity to see the calf by late spring, generating excitement among the local community. The gender and name of the calf are expected to be announced in the upcoming weeks, further engaging zoo-goers. Malayan tapirs are listed as endangered due to declining populations caused by habitat loss and human encroachment. The successful birth of this calf is part of a broader conservation effort aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability of the species, highlighting the importance of zoos in wildlife preservation.