Bison vs. Tapir

Attribute	Bison	Tapir
Species	Bison	Tapir
Family	Bovidae	Tapiridae
Habitat	Grasslands and forests	Tropical forests and grasslands
Diet	Herbivorous	Herbivorous
Size	Large	Medium to large

Physical Attributes

Bison and tapirs are both large mammals, but they have distinct physical attributes. Bison are known for their massive size, with males weighing up to 2,000 pounds and standing over six feet tall at the shoulder. They have a hump on their shoulders, which is made of muscle supported by long vertebrae. In contrast, tapirs are smaller in size, typically weighing between 500 and 800 pounds and standing around three feet tall at the shoulder. Tapirs have a short, prehensile trunk that they use to grab leaves and fruits.

Habitat and Range

Both bison and tapirs have specific habitats where they thrive. Bison are native to North America and can be found in grasslands, prairies, and forests. They once roamed in large herds across the Great Plains but are now primarily found in national parks and reserves. Tapirs, on the other hand, are found in Central and South America, as well as parts of Southeast Asia. They prefer dense forests near water sources, where they can find the vegetation they need to survive.

Diet and Feeding Habits

When it comes to diet, bison and tapirs have different feeding habits. Bison are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses, sedges, and other vegetation. They use their large, muscular tongues to rip grass from the ground and grind it with their molars. Tapirs, on the other hand, are browsers that feed on leaves, fruits, and aquatic plants. They use their flexible trunks to pluck leaves and fruits from trees and bushes, as well as to drink water from rivers and streams.

Social Structure

Both bison and tapirs are social animals that live in groups, but their social structures differ. Bison live in herds that are led by a dominant male known as a bull. The herd typically consists of females and their offspring, with younger males forming bachelor groups. Tapirs, on the other hand, are solitary animals that only come together during mating season. They are known to be shy and elusive, preferring to live alone in their territories.

Reproduction and Offspring

Reproduction in bison and tapirs also varies in terms of timing and offspring. Bison mate in the late summer and give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of around nine months. The calf stays with its mother for about a year before becoming independent. Tapirs, on the other hand, have a longer gestation period of around 13 months and typically give birth to a single offspring. The young tapir stays with its mother for up to two years before venturing out on its own.

Conservation Status

Both bison and tapirs face threats to their populations and are considered vulnerable species. Bison were once on the brink of extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss, but conservation efforts have helped increase their numbers in recent years. Tapirs, on the other hand, are threatened by deforestation, hunting, and human encroachment on their habitats. Conservation organizations are working to protect tapir populations and their habitats to ensure their survival for future generations.