Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo welcomes endangered Malayan tapir calf
The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo has welcomed a brand-new baby Malayan tapir calf after months of waiting for her arrival, and she’s already stealing hearts.
The female calf, born on Aug. 28, 2025, is the very first Malayan tapir to be born at the zoo and is the offspring of five-year-old mom Sempurna and 24-year-old dad Tanuck, who were paired through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan.
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With her striped and spotted coat, she has earned the nickname of a “little watermelon on legs.” The markings are adorable and act as natural camouflage for the young tapir.Â
“After a few initial nursing hiccups, Sempurna is showing all the right instincts as a first-time mom,” said Barb Campbell, Animal Care Supervisor, in a news release. “The calf is strong, active, and feeding well. She already weighs 10.5 kg! …it’s impossible not to adore this little one.”Â
Sempurna and the baby tapir will remain behind the scenes at the PETRONAS Gateway to Asia, allowing bonding time for the new mom and baby before her public debut.
Malayan tapirs are the largest tapir species in the world, and the only ones found in Asia. With only about 2,500 left in the wild due to poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict, they are considered an at-risk species. The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is a part of the Malayan tapir Species Survival Plan, which collaborates with other zoos to protect the rare species.
“While it’s still early days, we’re already impressed by this little watermelon’s confidence and curiosity,” Campbell said. “Every birth is special, but this one has been long-awaited and carries real significance for the species. Our whole team is buzzing with excitement, and we can’t wait for our community to meet this incredible new addition!”
While visitors will need to wait a little longer to see her in person, they can follow the zoo’s social media for regular updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.