U.S. officials have proposed adding three giraffe subspecies – the West African, Kordofan, and Nubian giraffes – to the endangered species list. Additionally, the reticulated and Masai giraffes would be considered threatened. This move is aimed at protecting the giraffes from threats such as poaching, habitat loss, and climate change, and would require permits for importing giraffes into the U.S. Conservation efforts would also be boosted in their range countries. The population of the West African, Kordofan, and Nubian giraffes has declined by 77% since 1985, with only about 690 West African giraffes remaining. The majority of reticulated giraffes are in Kenya, while Masai giraffes have seen a 67% decline since the 1970s. Giraffes, the tallest terrestrial animals, primarily feed on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruit, and are adaptable to various habitats. The public has 90 days to comment on the proposal to list the giraffe subspecies as endangered. The Fish and Wildlife Service emphasizes that while trade with the U.S. is not the main threat to giraffes, it does contribute to their decline, along with human population growth and urbanization. By protecting giraffes under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. aims to support biodiversity, combat wildlife trafficking, and ensure the conservation of these iconic animals.
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Officials in the United States advocate for the inclusion of giraffes on the endangered species list
