It's almost time to stamp the passport for Ulan, the Malayan tapir at Seattle's Woodland Park Zoo. The venerable creature, recognizable for her distinctive, odd appearance and prehensile snout, is set to leave her current abode for a new life at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo in California. Visitors wishing to bid Ulan farewell have until August 27, 2024, to see her in Seattle, as reported by FOX 13 Seattle.
After a decade of inspiring fascination among zoo-goers and participating willingly in pre-natal care procedures, Ulan is leaving as part of a recommendation by the Malayan Tapir Species Survival Plan. The 12-year-old's new home will feature a mixed-species habitat alongside their male counterpart, Willium, and a pair of babirusa in what promises to be a picturesque river setting. Erin Sullivan, an animal curator at Woodland Park Zoo, shared with KOMO News, "We’re going to miss her, but we’re excited for her new adventures ahead." It should be noted that Ulan was not always the sole tapir at the Seattle Zoo. Her offspring, Sempurna, and her former companion, Bintang, preceded her departure.
Woodland Park Zoo similarly emphasizes the upgrade that the tapir exhibit will undergo once Ulan departs. More than just a habitat alteration, this renovation is aimed at enhancing the space for both guests and future animal denizens. Ulan's transfer marks the end of her species' presence at the park after a 30-year run with the Malayan tapirs, creating both melancholy and anticipation for what's to come at the zoo, according to FOX 13 Seattle.
Moving on to California means Ulan will not only have a chance at companionship but also will join the modest number of her species in accredited facilities across the nation. Tapirs are unique creatures, having an ancestry and physical attributes that have remained largely unchanged for millions of years. They share an odd toe count with horses and rhinos – their closest relatives – and are noted for their swimming prowess, using their snouts as snorkels. They've been a living link to ancient times and an educational asset, as the Woodland Park Zoo blog pointedly illustrates.
The last day to catch a glimpse of Ulan in Seattle approaches, and those interested should plan their visit to the Trail of Vines habitat before she embarks on what will be the next chapter of her life – a new adventure in Fresno that Woodland Park Zoo's staff and visitors will follow with interest and well-wishes.
