On March 7, the Nashville Zoo welcomed its newest addition when Baird’s tapir Juju gave birth to a watermelon-striped joy nugget by the name of Kuzco. With their short, snoutish trunks and bodies that look something like a cross between a pig and a horse, Baird’s tapirs are the largest land mammals native to Central America. Because this particular species of tapir hails from the same area as the Inca, Kuzco is named after the David Spade-voiced protagonist of Disney’s The Emperor’s New Groove. But Kuzco — who’s since grown out of his stripes — is exponentially more likable than Spade, and a great reason to visit the Nashville Zoo. Say hi to mom Juju and half-brother Tybalt while you’re there. D. PATRICK RODGERS
Best Zoo Baby
Kuzco the Baird’s Tapir
