An adult male tapir was captured and transferred for specialized veterinary care after a fracture was detected in one of its front legs. The case was reported in the Los Ángeles and Agujitas de Drake area, in the canton of Osa, Puntarenas.
According to the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), the animal was first observed with this condition in early July of this year, but it could not be captured. “After two failed capture attempts, it was finally transported to the Yaguará Rescue Center, where it is receiving immediate care,” SINAC stated.
An interdisciplinary team from the Hospital for Minor and Wild Species of the National University conducted a general assessment. The primary diagnosis was a transverse fracture of the humerus in the right forelimb. In addition, blood samples were taken for complete blood counts, blood chemistry, and infectious disease tests. However, the animal’s condition remains critical.
Delicate condition
“The animal’s condition remains delicate, given that the fracture has been present for at least four months,” the institution emphasized. During this period, the tapir was unable to feed properly, resulting in poor body condition and a vulnerable state.
Endangered Species
Authorities emphasized that the Central American tapir is an endangered species, primarily due to habitat loss, hunting, and road accidents. Costa Rica still maintains stable populations in national parks and protected areas such as Corcovado, Tortuguero, and the Talamanca Mountains. MINAE also emphasized that this species is of great ecological, cultural, and scientific importance to the country and the Mesoamerican region.
Finally, the Osa Conservation Area expressed its gratitude for the support of the individuals, organizations, and institutions that collaborated in the care of the specimen.
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Wilmer Useche
