‘Tiny walking watermelons’: Calgary zoo says Malayan tapir expecting a calf

CALGARY – The Calgary zoo is expecting a new addition this summer that it says will look like a little watermelon on four legs

Four-year-old Malayan tapir Sempurna is pregnant with a calf sired by 23-year-old Tanuck. 

Baby tapirs have white markings on their bodies with a pattern resembling the outside of a watermelon. 

The zoo says it’s cautiously optimistic about a successful birth, and it plans to launch #WatermelonWatchYYC on social media as the calf’s arrival approaches. 

The typical gestation period for tapirs is about 13 1/2 months, which would put the due date between mid-July and mid-August. 

The zoo says wild Malayan tapir populations are rapidly declining in Asia due to habitat loss, poaching and conflict with humans.

“This pregnancy is a huge win for Malayan tapir conservation — and we’re thrilled to support Sempurna through this next phase in her journey,” said Jennifer Godwin, an animal care manager at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. 

“Tanuck and Sempurna are beloved ambassadors for their species, and the successful birth of a calf would be an important step forward in the conservation of their endangered population. 

“Plus, let’s be honest — tapir babies are basically tiny, walking watermelons, which are extremely adorable!”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Jan. 22, 2025. 

The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.