Coloration varies from tan to black or red. The undersides and short legs are generally dark and the cheeks, throat, and ear edges are often lighter in color. A black mane extends from the forehead to the midback. One of the most distinguishable characteristics of the Brazilian tapir is its proboscis, which is long, flexible, prehensile, and covered with sensory vibrissae. A tall sagittal crest makes the head appear convex.
Females have a single pair of mammary glands.
The eat fruits, leaves, stems, sprouts, small branches, grasses, aquatic plants, tree bark, aquatic organisms, and cane, melon, cocoa, rice, and corn from plantations. Reproduction Estrous occurs at intervals of 50 to 80 days and lasts two days. Mates attract by producing squealing and clicking calls. They mates do not stay together long. Copulation occurs in or outside of water.