The Dudley Zoo in the United Kingdom is home to the Brazilian or South American Tapirs, one of the four species found around the world. These large, browsing mammals are closely related to horses and rhinoceroses, with a distinctive short, prehensile snout and a dark brown coat that provides excellent camouflage in the forest shadows.
Tapir Experience at Dudley Zoo
Visitors to the Dudley Zoo can enjoy a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the zoo’s beloved tapirs through the Tapir Experience. This interactive encounter allows participants to join the keepers and “tickle” the loving pair of tapirs, providing a memorable and educational experience.
The Tapir Experience is suitable for children aged 8 and above, and it includes admission to the zoo. During the experience, participants will have the chance to learn about the tapirs’ behavior, habitat, and conservation efforts, as well as interact with these gentle giants in a safe and supervised environment.
Dudley Zoo Tapir Adoption Packages
In addition to the Tapir Experience, the Dudley Zoo offers visitors the opportunity to support the zoo and its tapirs through their adoption packages. These packages provide a unique way to contribute to the care and well-being of the tapirs while also receiving a range of benefits.
Gold Adoption Package
The Gold adoption package for the Dudley Zoo Tapir includes the following:
- A zoo admission ticket
- A personalized message displayed outside the adopted animal’s enclosure
- An additional zoo admission ticket
Silver Adoption Package
The Silver adoption package for the Dudley Zoo Tapir includes the following:
- An adoption certificate
- A zoo admission ticket
- An animal factsheet
- An animal photo
- A subscription to the ZooNooz newsletter
- A greetings card
- A presentation folder
- A photo frame
Adoption Package Costs
The Tapir Experience at the Dudley Zoo costs £110 for two people and is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
The Gold adoption package for the Dudley Zoo Tapir is priced at £55.00, while the Silver adoption package is priced at £41.50.
These adoption packages not only support the zoo and its animals but also make for unique and thoughtful gifts for animal lovers and zoo enthusiasts.
Dudley Zoo Tapir Facts
Here are some interesting facts about the Dudley Zoo Tapirs:
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Species | Brazilian or South American Tapir |
| Scientific Name | Tapirus terrestris |
| Habitat | Tropical and subtropical forests, swamps, and grasslands in South America |
| Size | Up to 2.5 meters long and 1 meter tall at the shoulder |
| Weight | Between 150 and 300 kilograms |
| Lifespan | Up to 30 years in captivity |
| Diet | Herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plants, leaves, fruits, and aquatic vegetation |
| Behavior | Solitary, nocturnal, and excellent swimmers |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List |
Visiting the Dudley Zoo Tapirs
The Dudley Zoo is open throughout the year, and visitors can observe the tapirs in their enclosure during regular zoo hours. The Tapir Experience and adoption packages can be booked in advance through the zoo’s website or by contacting the zoo directly.
Whether you choose to participate in the Tapir Experience, adopt a tapir, or simply observe these fascinating creatures during your visit, the Dudley Zoo offers a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the Brazilian or South American Tapir.