The Okapi: A shy, Most Curious Animal, Species On The Brink

Tropical woods of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in Central Africa, are home to the okapi (Okapia johnstoni), a strange and critically endangered species. Closely related to the giraffe, it is the sole surviving member of the Giraffidae family. The okapi stands out from other animals due to its distinct appearance: a dark reddish-brown coat with white stripes and white stripes on its legs. They are great climbers and can readily make their way through the forest's thick foliage thanks to their enormous, sensitive ears.

A timid and evasive animal, the okapi is seldom seen in the wild. Because it is less likely to be seen at night, that is when it chooses to do most of its damage. The okapi may be found in a broad range of forest types, including tropical, subtropical, and montane. Because of the abundance of food and safety from predators, it is most at home in the lush foliage of the rainforest. The majority of its diet consists of plant matter, such as leaves, buds, and fruit.

Due to illicit poaching, habitat loss, and sickness, the okapi is in a catastrophic state of extinction. There may be as few as 10,000 okapis still roaming free in the world today. The population has dropped dramatically from its peak of approximately 50,000 in the early 1900s. Illegal gold mining is a major danger to the okapi because it destroys vital habitat.

Protection and preservation initiatives are in place for the okapi. In 1992, a sanctuary for okapis and other animals was created in the form of the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. The okapi are free to roam the reserve without risk of being hunted or having their habitat destroyed thanks to the World Wildlife Fund, which oversees the reserve. Awareness-raising campaigns about the condition of the okapi are the focus of other conservation activities such as anti-poaching patrols, habitat restoration, and educational programs.

The okapi is a fascinating animal with a significant role in the ecosystem. The species' numbers are falling, and we must do everything we can to keep it alive. Protecting and raising awareness about this fascinating creature is essential to its continued existence.

Content created and supplied by: Mount10 (via Opera News )