Nantong Forest Safari Park in Chongchuan district, Nantong, Jiangsu province recently celebrated its one-month-old South American tapir baby with a public appearance that drew many visitors eager to take photos with the adorable creature.

The newborn tapir, named Jixiang, which means auspicious in Chinese, is a rare success story of artificial breeding in the province. Jixiang is currently learning to swim and forage and receiving specialized care. Initially housed in a temperature-controlled enclosure with its mother, recent warmer weather prompted Jixiang’s first public appearance.

According to caretaker Zhao Yan, the tapir calf was born with brown and white stripes, which will fade into the gray skin resembling its parents' after three to four months. Weather permitting, Jixiang is expected to meet visitors at the zoo's Misty Forest exhibit during the upcoming May Day holiday.

The birth of the South American tapir not only enriches the variety of wildlife at the park but also provides valuable data for animal conservation and research efforts. Marketing Manager Cao Jinglin expressed the park's commitment to strengthening conservation and education initiatives, aiming to raise awareness and support for endangered species.

South American tapirs, known for their gentle nature, are key protected animals worldwide, and are typically found in South America. They primarily feed on leaves, fruits, and insects.

The newborn tapir and its mother. [Photo/Nantong Daily]