The terrestrial tapir’s geographic range extends across most of the tropical forests of South America. It has an unusual snout. In fact, the upper lip and the ‘nose’ have merged to form a prehensile proboscis. A herbivore, it feeds mainly on fruit, leaves and other plants. Its very practical proboscis makes it easier for it to grasp its food. It can also be used as a snorkel when it takes refuge in the water to escape predators. It is a solitary, nocturnal animal that swims very well. It is therefore difficult to observe in its natural environment. Its closest cousins are the rhinoceros and the horse.