Giraffidae

Okapia johnstoni1

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Australia Zoo Giraffe-2 (17998331829)

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Shansitherium fuguensis

Tragulus napu - 1818-1842 - Print - Iconographia Zoologica - Special Collections University of Amsterdam - (white background)

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Giraffidae is a family of ruminant mammals that includes the giraffe and its closest living relative, the okapi. The family is part of the Artiodactyla order, which also includes deer, cattle, and goats among others. Giraffidae are distinguished by their long necks and legs, and both species are native to Africa. The giraffe is found in savanna, grassland, and open woodland areas, while the okapi inhabits the dense rainforests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Evolution and Classification

The Giraffidae family has a rich fossil record, with its origins tracing back to the early Miocene epoch, approximately 25 million years ago. Early giraffids were smaller and did not have the extreme elongation of neck and legs that characterize modern giraffes. Through millions of years of evolution, these traits developed as adaptations to their environments, particularly for reaching high foliage in trees for the giraffe and navigating dense forests for the okapi.

The family Giraffidae is divided into two genera:

• Giraffa - which includes the giraffe, with its four recognized species.
• Okapia - containing only the okapi (Okapia johnstoni).

Physical Characteristics

Giraffids share several common physical traits, including a long tongue, useful for grasping foliage, and a unique pattern of coat markings that vary among individuals. The giraffe's height, which can reach up to 5.5 meters (18 feet), is primarily due to its elongated neck and legs, making it the tallest land animal in the world. The okapi, though not as tall, has a similar body structure but is more modestly sized, with adults typically around 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) tall at the shoulder.

Habitat and Behavior

Giraffes are social animals and live in loose, open herds without a strict hierarchy. Their diet consists mainly of leaves, shoots, and twigs, primarily from acacia trees. They are known for their ability to go long periods without water, obtaining moisture from their food.

Okapis are more solitary and elusive, with a diet that includes leaves, buds, grasses, ferns, fruits, and fungi. They are particularly dependent on certain tree species for their feeding.

Conservation

Both giraffes and okapis face threats from habitat loss and poaching. The giraffe has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with some subspecies being critically endangered. The okapi is also listed as Endangered, with its population declining due to habitat destruction and illegal hunting.

Cultural Significance

Giraffids have been part of African folklore and culture for millennia, with the giraffe appearing in ancient Egyptian art and mythology. Today, they continue to be a symbol of Africa's wildlife and are popular attractions in zoos and wildlife parks around the world.