Rare Brazilian tapir born at Lake District Wildlife Park

The park would like suggestions from the public on what to call their new arrival

A rare Brazilian tapir has been born at a wildlife park in Cumbria.

The calf, which has not been named, was born at the Lake District Wildlife Park near Keswick - the second from parents Rio and Muffin in two years.

The park said he had a shaky start, but is now venturing out to explore more of his home.

Manager Richard Robinson said he is curious and has a mind of his own, so they think he will be "quite a star" at the park.

The pair of Tapirs have been at the site since 2002.

Mr Robinson, said: "We're very proud of Muffin; she's taken motherhood in her stride and is very calm.

"Our new baby took a few days to get going, we needed to give him some help feeding but he's really doing well now and has already developed a strong personality.

"He is quite striking to look at - all Tapir babies are born with spots and stripes - great camouflage when out in the forests of Brazil.

"This youngster has some great markings, but as he gets older they will fade."

Muffin and Rio have been one of the favourites at the park since arriving in 2002

Tapirs live in the wild in jungle and forest lands in Central and South America as well as in South East Asia.

They are currently listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of threatened species.

The park is now looking for suggestions on what to name the calf which will reflect his Brazilian origin.