Farewell, Lupo: Tapir from Zoo Schmiding Moves to Australia

The lowland tapir Lupo, who was born two and a half years ago at Zoo Schmiding in Krenglbach near Wels, is emigrating: The young animal is to establish a new population in Australia together with a companion from Cologne Zoo. He is currently in quarantine and will embark on the long journey in about a month.

Tapir from Zoo Schmiding Makes Debut with Australia Journey

Zoo director Andreas Artmann stated on Monday in a press release that they are "proud to be part of an international milestone in species conservation." Because the European Endangered Species Programme for lowland tapirs is running very well, some zoos are already reaching the limits of their holding capacities. To continue ensuring genetic diversity and appropriate housing, they are now making the leap to Australia. Lupo is the first lowland tapir from Europe to emigrate to Down Under. In the wild, the animals are still classified as endangered according to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Preparations began six months ago: These included comprehensive veterinary health checks, obtaining numerous permits and documents, as well as logistical planning. Special transport crates were built to ensure a stress-free transfer.

(APA/Red)

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