U.S. officials advocate for giraffes to be added to endangered species list

U.S. officials are proposing to add three giraffe subspecies – the West African, Kordofan, and Nubian giraffes – to the endangered species list, while listing the reticulated and Masai giraffes as threatened. The decline in giraffe populations is attributed to poaching, habitat loss, climate change, human population growth, and urbanization. The Endangered Species Act would provide protections to reduce illegal hunting and trade, as well as increase funding for conservation efforts. Since 1985, the populations of the West African, Kordofan, and Nubian giraffes have declined by 77%, with only 690 West African giraffes remaining. The majority of reticulated giraffes are found in Kenya, while there are approximately 45,400 Masai giraffes left. Giraffes are known for being the tallest terrestrial animals, primarily feeding on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruit in savannas and woodlands. The proposal to list these giraffe subspecies as endangered is open for public comment for 90 days. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service believes that federal protections for giraffes will help safeguard the species and their habitats, combat wildlife trafficking, and promote sustainable economic practices.

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