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

However, at around 14.00 WIB, the tapir was found to have fallen into the water channel and was unable to get out on its own. The evacuation process then involved the KSDA Region III Lampung Section, Mesuji Regency Environmental Service, Mesuji Regency Agriculture and Livestock Service, Way Serdang District, Mesuji Police Department, PT PAL employees, and the surrounding community.

The location where the tapir was found is only about 800 meters from the Terbanggi Besar–Pematang Panggang–Kayu Agung toll road. This proximity is one of the considerations in the evacuation process because the movement of animals towards the toll road can endanger tapirs and road users.

Tapirs experience stress and abrasions

The initial examination was carried out by the KSDA team together with two veterinarians from the Mesuji Regency Agriculture and Livestock Service, namely Drh. Zainal Indrianto and drh. Vina Lusia Haryani.

The results of the examination showed that the female tapir was experiencing mild stress and had a number of abrasions on her legs, nape, back, right side of her stomach and mouth.

After being evacuated from the water channel, the tapir was able to stand and walk well. The initial examination also did not find any indication of a fracture.

However, further monitoring is still being carried out to ensure that the animal does not experience internal injuries or other health problems.

Officers have given vitamins to help the tapir's body recover and treat injured parts. After conditions allowed it to be moved, the tapir was placed temporarily in the Mesuji Regency Biodiversity Park.