100 Years Later, the Largest Land Mammal Reappears – A Triumph for Biodiversity

The history of biodiversity is full of surprises. Over the centuries, species have been classified as extinct due to habitat destruction and the lack of sightings. However, nature often reminds us that it holds unexpected secrets, showcasing the resilience of life. After 100 years without any confirmed records, cameras from the State Institute of the Environment of Rio de Janeiro (INEA) have captured a historic moment—the reappearance of the South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris), the largest terrestrial mammal in South America, in the Costa Verde region.

An Unexpected Return

The last documented sighting of a tapir in this region dates back to 1914, when it was seen in Serra dos Órgãos National Park. Since then, urbanization and uncontrolled hunting had pushed the species to the brink of local extinction.

For decades, it was believed to be gone. But now, new images and videos from Cunhambebe State Park (PEC)—a 38,000-hectare biodiversity sanctuary—show three wild tapirs, including a mother and her baby, walking through the vegetation.

Cunhambebe State Park: A Hidden Treasure of Biodiversity

Cunhambebe State Park (PEC) is a natural gem in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It is a sanctuary of the Atlantic Forest, home to species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Established in 2008, it spans across Angra dos Reis, Rio Claro, Itaguaí, and Mangaratiba, named after Cunhambebe, a legendary Tupinambá indigenous leader who resisted Portuguese colonization in the 16th century. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, the park serves as a safe haven for endangered species, and the reappearance of the tapir proves that conservation efforts are working.

A Win for Conservation

The return of the South American tapir was made possible by dedicated conservation efforts. INEA and Vale strategically placed camera traps in the forest to monitor wildlife, confirming that habitat protection programs are making an impact.

What Are Tapirs?

Tapirs are robust mammals with short legs, rounded bodies, and flexible trunks. Some describe them as a mix between a pig and a miniature elephant, but they are actually closely related to rhinos and horses.

They are also known as the "gardeners of the jungle." As they move through the forest, they eat fruits and disperse seeds through their waste, helping regenerate the ecosystem. These shy, nocturnal creatures are masters of camouflage, making their recent sighting even more remarkable.

Still at Risk

Despite this exciting discovery, South American tapirs remain an endangered species, facing threats from:

• Deforestation

• Urban expansion

• Poaching

The Tapir's Role in the Ecosystem

This 250-kilogram mammal is more than just a symbol of conservation—it is a key player in maintaining forest health:

• Their large footprints create natural pathways that allow sunlight to reach the forest floor, encouraging plant growth.

• They help spread plant species by dispersing seeds across vast distances.

• They are an essential part of the food chain, serving as prey for predators like jaguars and pumas.

Nature’s Power to Rebound

The reappearance of the South American tapir is a powerful reminder that nature can recover if given the right protection. It offers hope for other endangered species, showing that with conservation, we can bring back life to ecosystems that once seemed lost. 🌿🐾