Did you know?
Okapis live as solitary individuals in very inaccessible rainforest. Although this species had been known to the natives of the Congo for a long time, scientists were only able to prove its existence in 1890. At first they were classified as horses and named „Johnston’s horse“ after the explorer who discovered them. In 1901 one
found out that the species was actually a forest giraffe and a new genus was introduced.
European Endangered species Program
This animal is managed by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) under the European Endangered species Program.
Characteristics
| Classification | Order: even-toed ungulates, family: giraffids |
|---|---|
| Diet | Leaves, sprouts and tree shoots of over 100 plant species |
| Habitat | Clearings and the dense undergrowth of tropical rainforests; often close to water |
| Reproduction | Mating all year round; gestation period: 435–473 days, one offspring; suckling period: 8–12 months; sexual maturity at 2–3 years; maximum age: over 33 years |
Status according to Red List
More information you will get on the web page of the IUCN Red List.
