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Tapirs are large, herbivorous mammals native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, as well as Southeast Asia. They belong to the family Tapiridae and are the only extant members of this group. Tapirs have a distinctive appearance with a long snout that is used for foraging, short legs, and a stout body covered in thick fur. They are excellent swimmers and can be found near bodies of water such as rivers and streams. Tapirs play an important role in their ecosystems by helping to disperse seeds through their feces. There are four species of tapirs: the Brazilian tapir, the Malayan tapir, the Baird's tapir, and the mountain tapir. All tapir species are threatened due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities.