Why Is Okapi Endangered

“The Okapia Johnstoni is an endangered species... that is endemic to the Democratic Republic of Congo” (Stanton). Humans have a desire for the fur/skin of Okapis, resulting in a large amount of poaching for their characteristics, which is a major reason as to why they are considered endangered. The Okapi’s physical appearance is extremely unique and different than any other animal. Their colors vary from red, brown, black and even white on their body, and are covered with reddish brown fur. The hind quarters and tops of their legs are covered with horizontal stripes of black and white, those of which resemble the stripes of a zebra. Their ankles are white and have dark spots above each hoof. They have adaptations that help suit them for their environment that they live in. One of their adaptations is considered to be one of their most unique features, the tongue, which is very long and black in color, and can reach and grab higher branches of trees for food. They also have large ears, helping to detect predators or any impending danger, especially since their eyesight is not the …show more content…
“The courtship is begun by the partner by sniffing, circling and licking each other. Finally, the male okapi asserts its dominance by tossing its head while extending its neck, and by thrusting one leg forward... After mating, the male and the female part their ways” (animalspot). They have a reproduction period of approximately 14 -15 months and give birth to a single infant at a time. They only have a life expectancy of about 25-30 years in captivity, but in the wild it is much less. They can reach adult size in about 3 years. Their sexual maturity can be reached after 1 year and 7 months for a female, but 2 years and 2 months for the