Minnesota Zoo's 'Star' Tapir Calf Named After Public Contest

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- A Malayan tapir calf -- who was born at the Minnesota Zoo in late July -- now has a name after a public naming contest.

The female tapir calf, the first born at the Zoo in more than 20 years, is now named Amirah. The name means princess and was the winning name with 401 votes.

The Zoo says Amirah has quickly become a guest favorite. She now weighs 101 pounds and can be seen on exhibit each morning with her mother, Bertie.

Malayan tapirs are one of the most endangered animals in Southeast Asia with populations declining due to habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural palm oil plantations. Learn more here.

Young tapirs can weigh as much as 450 pounds by 1 years old and reach adult size in 2 to 3 years.