to avoid these chance meetings, tapirs mark their grounds with urine and alert each other of their presence by making loud vocalizations including high-pitched squeaks, shrills and whistles. Tapirs have very few natural predators because they are large animals and the thick skin on their necks makes it more difficult for a predator to grasp the animal. Most threats come from large cats such as Jaguars and Tigers, also snakes such as the Anaconda and Crocodiles when in water. Tapirs can also run rather quickly despite their size and are able to quickly find safety in the thick undergrowths of the forests or in water. When faced with a predator, a Tapir is able to defend itself using its strong jaws and sharp teeth. Tapir Habitat Tapirs preferred habitats are woodlands and dense grassy areas with a close water source such as lake or river. Old growth forests are also favoured because of the food sources found within them. Tapir Diet Tapirs are herbivores that feed up on water plants, fruits and buds. These mammals will also eat twigs and leaves. They use their long snouts to forage along the ground in search of food. Tapirs have been known to consume up to 40 kilograms (85 pounds) of vegetation in one day. Tapir Reproduction Tapirs mate all year round but mostly during the rainy season. Young are born just before the rains begin in the following year. Mating can take place either in or out of the water. Breeding pairs