Okapi
Okapia johnstoni
Endangered
IUCN Red List status · Population decreasing as of 2023 · Est. 35,000 individuals
About the Okapi
Often called the "forest giraffe," the okapi is a shy, solitary mammal found only in the Ituri Rainforest of DR Congo. Related to giraffes, they are elusive and poorly understood, threatened by deforestation and poaching.
Region
Central Africa
Population
35,000
Trend
Data Year
2023
Key Facts
Habitat Types
Found In
Why Africa's Wildlife Matters
Africa's megafauna are not just iconic — they are ecosystem engineers. The loss of a single keystone species can trigger cascading collapses across entire biomes. Elephants create waterholes, lions regulate prey, and predators maintain the biodiversity that keeps Africa's grasslands and forests functioning.
20%
of Earth's bird species in Africa
25%
of mammals found in Africa
3,000+
endemic plant species at risk
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Adopt a Okapi
Your monthly support directly funds this animal's protection.
26% funded
Forest Friend
$15/month
Protect okapi rainforest habitat
- ✓ Digital certificate
- ✓ Monthly update
Ituri Guardian
$35/month
Full forest patrol sponsorship
- ✓ All Forest Friend perks
- ✓ Forest report
- ✓ Photo print
Quick Stats