What kind of animal is the okapi, also known as the “forest giraffe”? We will explain its characteristics, ecology, and habitat. Although they are famous mammals that can always be seen at zoos, they are also endangered animals. The okapi looks like a cross between a deer and a zebra.
What is okapi? About basic status
The okapi, also known as the “giraffe of the forest,” looks like a cross between a deer and a zebra, and its scientific name is Okapia johnstoni. It is an animal belonging to the genus Okapi, in the order Mammalia and order Artiodactyla. It weighs 200-300 kg, is 1.9-2.5 m long, and 1.5-2.0 m high at the shoulder, and has a horse-like appearance. It is characterized by its giraffe-like horns. Like giraffes, it also has two horns covered with skin on its head. However, males have horns, but females do not.
| Japanese（和名） | オカピ |
| English（英名） | Okapi |
| scientific name(学名) | Okapia johnstoni |
| classification（分類） | Mammalia、 Artiodactyl、Giraffidae、Okapia 哺乳綱、偶蹄目、キリン科、オカピ属 |
| IUCN Status(保全状況) | ENDANGERED |
| Length（体長） | 1.9-2.5m |
| Weight（体重） | 200 – 300kg |
About classification
The okapi alone forms the genus Okapi. This animal was discovered in Africa in the 1800s and was classified into the family Giraffidae. It is said to be one of the three most rare animals in nature, and there are many photos, images, and videos of okapi species available online. Giraffe and Okapi separated.
Where is its habitat?
Okapis live in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They used to live in Uganda too, but they have become extinct. There are no wild ones in Japan now, so if you want to find one, you can see them at the Yokohama Zoo Zoorasia in Kanagawa Prefecture.
feature is? What kind of creature is it?
Okapi lives in grasslands and rainforests and has brown and white stripes on its rump and limbs. It is a large, diurnal animal that prefers to be solitary. Males advertise their territory by scattering urine on their territory. They also form small groups and eat together. It has been suggested that it is a member of the giraffe family, and its appearance resembles a cross between a giraffe and a horse. It is known that the okapi is an animal close to the ancestor of the giraffe.
What is your personality like?
Okapis are animals with a great deal of individual variation, with some being cautious, some timid, and some very friendly. They are said to have evolved independently, with hooves similar to those of giraffes.
What is the ecology like?
Okapi lives by eating plants such as fruits, leaves, buds, leaves, and twigs. They eat leaves by gathering them with their long tongues. Regarding reproduction, the gestation period is long. It is possible to give birth to one calf at a time in 414 – 493 days. Babies breastfeed for about 6 months and reach sexual maturity in 3 years. Their lifespan is 15-20 years, with some living as long as 33 years.
Are there any natural enemies?
The okapi has a natural enemy called the leopard. Parents and children should take good care of each other and escape from danger.
Is the okapi an endangered species?
Unfortunately, the okapi is designated as an endangered species. According to the information provided, it is legally protected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is strictly protected. The population is declining due to the following reasons. Some protected areas have been built, making it difficult to manage.
Impact of civil war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
You can die from the effects of the civil war in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Okapi are often victims of attacks by armed groups, and many are killed.
habitat destruction
The okapi’s biggest concern is habitat destruction. As more and more areas where okapi can live are developed by humans, their habitats are becoming fragmented and isolated.
Hunting for food and leather
Illegal hunting is also a problem. Many zebras are killed by businesses for their meat and leather, and their meat is used commercially. Because they were used for food and died, the zoo protects and breeds these zebras.
Can okapi be kept?
Unfortunately, it is difficult to keep okapis as they are designated as an endangered species. The best you can do is see them in zoos and national parks. Zoos in the United States and Japan have a wide range of exhibits and other content, so we recommend that you go and see them first. They have beautiful stripes. They are often featured in the news, and there are a certain number of places where you can see them, so do your research. In Japan, you can see them at Zoorasia and other places.
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