Helping two rescued tapirs return to the wild
Blog
Two tapirs were rescued after suffering injuries from the fires that swept through Brazil in August 2024. Thanks to our partner, Onçafari, they are recovering and taking vital steps towards their return to the wild.
In August 2024, wildfires swept through Brazil's Pantanal, destroying nearly 2.6 million hectares of critical wildlife habitat – habitat that is essential for the survival of vulnerable species like the tapir.
Tragically, these fires are becoming more frequent, driven by the expanding factory farming industry, which destroys natural habitats to grow cheap crops to feed livestock or to create grazing land for cattle.
Amidst the destruction, two tapirs were found – Valente and Melancia.
Tapirs are large, herbivorous mammals with a distinctive, prehensile snout. Due to significant habitat loss, poaching and the encroachment of human development, all four species of tapir are at risk of extinction.
The two rescued tapirs endured severe burns and dehydration, but thanks to the commitment of animal lovers like you and our dedicated partner Onçafari, they are receiving the urgent care they need and are being given a second chance at life.
Meet Valente, a brave survivor
Valente (meaning “brave” in Portuguese) is a young adult tapir who was found lying alone in a devastated landscape. Severely burned and dehydrated, Valente had no strength left to run, as tapirs usually do when frightened. The rescue team offered him some water, and he eagerly drank 15 litres!
He was then transported to the Refúgio Ecológico Caiman treatment facility, where he underwent intensive care, including laser and ozone therapy, to heal his third-degree burns. His recovery has been slow but steady, and his return to the wild is on the horizon!
Valente receiving fruit. (Photo: Onçafari)
Meet Melancia, a determined young calf
Not long after Valente’s rescue, the team found Melancia, a six-month-old tapir calf. Her name, Portuguese for "watermelon," nods to her striped and spotted coat. Like Valente, Melancia suffered burns and dehydration, but her youth and lighter weight helped her to recover more quickly.
Now thriving in a spacious reintroduction enclosure, Melancia is learning essential survival skills, including identifying wild foods and interacting with other animals. Though her journey back to the wild will take longer – about a year and a half – she’s already displaying the natural instincts critical to her survival in the wild.
Help wildlife recover
Your support is crucial in helping us support the rescue, rehabilitation and protection of vulnerable animals like these two tapirs – Valente and Melancia – and to advocate for critical systemic changes to protect wildlife and their natural habitats before it’s too late.
Together, we can protect animals and their habitats from further devastation and ensure a future for all wild animals.
Banner photo: Fernando Faciole