Tapirs — Reading Comprehension Lesson

Reading Passage

Tapirs

Tapirs are large, stocky mammals that look somewhat like pigs but are actually most closely related to horses and rhinoceroses. There are four species: three found in Central and South America and one in Southeast Asia. Despite living on opposite sides of the world, all tapir species are remarkably similar in appearance, a result of their ancient lineage — tapirs have changed very little in tens of millions of years.

The tapir’s most distinctive feature is its flexible, prehensile snout, which works like a short trunk. Tapirs use it to grasp and pull leaves, fruits, and branches into their mouths. They are herbivores that feed on a wide variety of plants and play an important role in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds through their droppings as they move through the forest.

Tapirs prefer wet habitats near rivers, streams, and swamps, where they are excellent swimmers and frequently take to the water to escape predators and cool down. Their tough, thick skin provides protection against thorns and insects. Baby tapirs are born with spotted and striped coats that provide camouflage on the forest floor, though these markings fade within a few months.

All four tapir species are endangered or vulnerable due to habitat destruction from logging, farming, and road-building. Hunting also threatens tapir populations in some regions. As large, slow-reproducing animals that require extensive forest habitat, tapirs are particularly sensitive to human disturbance. Conservation programs focus on protecting rainforest habitat and reducing poaching.

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