Current Distribution and Conservation Status of the Colombian Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris colombianus) and the Baird’s or Central American Tapir (Tapirus bairdii) in Colombia

Abstract

Colombia is the only country to have the three American tapir species living within its borders, Tapirus bairdii (Central American, Chocó or Baird’s tapir), T. terrestris (Lowland or Amazon tapir) and T. pinchaque (Mountain or Woolly tapir); also, a rare form or subspecies of the lowland tapir, known as Colombian tapir or T. terrestris colombianus. That richness reflects the great biodiversity of this country and the unique ecosystems it harbors. Regrettably, as highlighted in this report, little is known about the vast majority of the species and ecosystems at a time when they face high and tangible risks of extinction.