Serengeti giraffes are a great indicator of the health of the savannah. As tree-top browsers, mainly of acacia trees, a healthy Masai giraffe population reflects a healthy acacia woodlands ecosystem.
Contrary to common perception, Africa’s giraffe species have declined by an estimated 30% over the last decade; a fact that is often referred to as a “silent extinction”. Habitat conversion is a primary threat, with a recent escalation of poaching for bushmeat, animal fat and bone marrow which is which is incorrectly believed to have medical value.
Monitoring methods are completely non- invasive, using pattern-recognition software to identify the individuals, and inform giraffe-population studies. In what is recognized as the biggest giraffe study in the world, Wild Nature Institute’s scientists are monitoring more than 3 500 individual giraffes throughout their lifetimes over an extensive 25 000 sq. km. (9 652 sq. miles). These animals can live to about 25 years in the wild.
This research provides crucial information on where they are – or aren’t – thriving; whether there are factors like poaching or lion pressure, or perhaps vegetation differences. This research supports communities working to protect and connect areas important to the conservation of Masai giraffes.
With this information in place, effective conservation measures can be put in place to ensure their future and all creatures of the savanna.
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