THE endangered Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus) plays a vital role as a forest seed disperser, known for its solitary habits and distinctive black-and-white coat.
Recently, reports have surfaced that an adult tapir died after being hit by a vehicle along Jalan Dungun-Bukit Besi near Kampung Serdang, Terengganu.
Did it really happen?
Verdict:
TRUE
A 200kg adult female tapir was killed after it was believed to have been struck by a vehicle along Jalan Dungun-Bukit Besi near Kampung Serdang on Thursday (Oct 29) night.
Terengganu Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) director Dennis Ten Choon Yung said the department received a public tip-off at 8.30pm before dispatching a four-man team to the scene.
"An examination found that the tapir sustained severe head injuries and several body scratches," he said in a statement on Friday (Oct 30).
The incident took place approximately 100m from the Bukit Bauk Forest Reserve, an area clearly marked with wildlife crossing warning signs. The animal's carcass was later retrieved for disposal.
Perhilitan reminded drivers to exercise extra caution and stay alert to wildlife crossing signboards when travelling near forest stretches to protect protected species and avoid similar accidents.
Source:
1. https://www.bernama.com/bm/
