Female Tapir Trapped in Mesuji Oil Palm Plantation Canal, Evacuated by BKSDA

LAMPUNG, GARISBUMI.com – An Asian tapir (tapirus indicus) was found trapped in a water channel in the oil palm plantation area of ​​PT Pematang Agri Lestari (PAL), Mesuji Regency, Lampung. The protected female animal was successfully evacuated and is now undergoing intensive care.

The evacuation was carried out by the Bengkulu Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA) through the Natural Resources Conservation Section (KSDA) Region III Lampung together with the Mesuji Regency Government, the police, the company, veterinarians and the community.

Head of the Bengkulu BKSDA, Agung Nugroho, said that handling protected animals must be done carefully by prioritizing the health conditions and welfare standards of the animals.

"The Bengkulu BKSDA together with the parties have carried out the evacuation and initial treatment of the tapir. Currently the animal is still undergoing observation to monitor its health condition, behavior and the progress of the injuries it has experienced," said Agung in his official statement, Monday (21/9/2026).

According to him, the next treatment steps will be determined based on the results of observations and health examinations.

The tapir was first seen by PT PAL employees on Sunday (20/9/2026) at around 08.00 WIB. These animals move in plantation areas dominated by palm oil, rubber and bushes.

At around 10.00 WIB, the tapirs were still around the workers' location. The animal was seen looking for food and drink among the vegetation and palm oil piles.