Tacoma, United States - January 10, 2025 Credit: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, Wash. Yuna, the beloved Malayan tapir, is preparing to welcome a new calf after a 13-month gestation period. The zoo’s dedicated veterinary and keeper team recently conducted another ultrasound, revealing healthy movement and a strong heartbeat for the unborn tapir. Yuna’s growing “baby bump” is becoming visible, and zoo guests can witness her journey in the Asian Forest Sanctuary habitats. Tapir calves are born after a lengthy pregnancy of 13 to 14 months, and they typically weigh around 22 pounds at birth. The birth of twins is exceptionally rare, and as of now, Yuna’s calf is expected to be a single birth. The zoo is closely monitoring Yuna’s health, providing her with a balanced diet and special care, including extra scratch-down sessions for her comfort and to assist with health checks. “Yuna has been trained to remain calm during her wellness exams, which allowed us to confirm her pregnancy,” said Curator Telena Welsh. “She’s also receiving additional pedicures to maintain her mobility and foot health as she adds weight.” This pregnancy is especially significant as Yuna’s calf will be only the second tapir born at the zoo in its 119-year history. Yuna and her mate, Baku, were paired through the Species Survival Plan® to ensure the continued survival and genetic diversity of the North American Malayan tapir population. As an endangered species, the Malayan tapir is facing population decline in the wild due to habitat loss. This pregnancy marks a hopeful moment for conservation efforts, and Yuna’s care team is dedicated to supporting her through the final stages of her pregnancy. Once born, the calf will sport distinctive blackish-brown fur with white stripes, helping it blend in with its surroundings for added protection. For the first several months of life, tapir calves are often compared to watermelons due to their unique coloring. Yuna’s growing calf will likely be a treasured addition to the zoo's conservation and education initiatives.