Infection suspected in sudden death of Malayan tapir Moke

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A veterinary team from National Taiwan University (NTU) conducted a thorough autopsy on Thursday (July 20) of the beloved Malayan tapir "Moke."

Preliminary findings from the postmortem revealed that Moke suffered from acute pulmonary edema, but further investigations uncovered a latent issue of chronic pleuropneumonia, according to Taipei Zoo.

The 7-year-old animal died two days earlier amid concerns that the tapir suffered from a heat stroke. The likelihood of dying from heat stress is low. 

Infection is suspected to be the primary cause of death. Tissue samples were collected to determine the specific pathogen responsible for the infection, and results are expected in two weeks.

A spokesperson for Taipei Zoo disclosed that Moke's health had taken a downturn on July 15 when his appetite waned, and he stopped eating entirely on July 17. Despite the prompt rescue efforts, the tapir tragically succumbed the following day.

In response to the unfortunate event, the zoo authorities have initiated comprehensive health checks on the other Malayan tapirs in the tropical rainforest area.
 
Additionally, measures to sanitize and enhance cooling facilities in the vicinity are being implemented to ensure the well-being of the remaining tapirs.