There are many animals in the world around us and all of them have something unique and special to offer. In some cases, it is more than simply keeping an environmental balance, it is a matter of touching our hearts and sometimes, putting a smile on our face. One type of animal that has many people wrapped around their little finger is the giraffe. We don’t see them outside of zoos in the United States because they are native to the African continent.
Recently, we found out that there are a few subspecies of giraffes that are having a very difficult time. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has confirmed that two subspecies of giraffes were added to the list of species that are considered “critically endangered.” Another three subspecies of giraffes are on the decline. The news isn’t all bad, because there are two subspecies that were listed as vulnerable and are now improving. The last of the nine subspecies is stable.
The two subspecies of giraffes that saw the improvement did so because the government got involved. They took the measures necessary to offer protection to those giraffes.
Animal lovers and conservationists around the world are concerned about the giraffe subspecies that are now facing severe danger. In order to protect the endangered species, a combination of efforts will be required. With enough people pulling together, positive change is possible.
People around the world love giraffes. Perhaps you remember April the giraffe and her famous pregnancy.
The Toys ‘R Us mascot is also a giraffe and we will miss him.
It is heartbreaking to learn that one-third of the subspecies of giraffes are now considered endangered.
IUCN is responsible for maintaining endangered species lists and so far, they have evaluated seven out of the nine subspecies of giraffes.
Giraffes such as April, known as Reticulated giraffes are now listed as endangered.
Another giraffe that is listed as a critically endangered species is the Kordofan giraffe. It is smaller than the other giraffes, being up to 20 feet tall and is a native of Northern Cameroon. They can also be found in the Central African Republic, Western Sudan, and Southern Chad.
The Nubian giraffe is also on the critically endangered list. This giraffe is found in the areas of Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, and South Sudan. There are only 2000 of the Nubian giraffe still living.
Other species of giraffe are now on the rebound, thanks to the efforts of conservationists.
As a whole, giraffes are listed as vulnerable. That means that they are likely to become endangered unless things improve for them.
National Geographic has also weighed in, saying it is difficult to find a real solution. Scientists just don’t have the knowledge necessary about their behavioral patterns to understand what to do.
It is known that trophy hunters and poachers are not helping matters.
Many people are shocked to learn that giraffes are in such danger.
Many people in the United States want the President to add giraffes to the endangered species act.
It is hoped that the efforts of conservationists around the world will help the giraffe in a similar way to what they have done with other endangered species.
