Is the Giraffe an Endangered Species?

With so much information on endangered animals, people often wonder if the giraffe is an endangered species as well. With the title of the ‘tallest’ animal in the world, the giraffe has always been an animal that holds a special fascination for most people. With its graceful long neck and beautiful spotted fur, the giraffe is an animal that many around the world hope to keep safe from extinction.

The natural habitat for the giraffe is in Africa. There are many different species of giraffes in the continent. As of right now, two types of giraffe species are endangered in Africa. The West African and Nigerian giraffes are experiencing a rapid population decline and are currently labeled as endangered. The other species of giraffes are not yet classified as being endangered.

One of the reasons for the endangerment of the West African and Nigerian giraffe is poaching. Giraffe tails are known as good luck charms in certain parts of Africa. The meat of the giraffe is also very desirable, and is even considered a delicacy in certain parts of Africa. The fur of the giraffe is highly prized and is used for a variety of products such as clothing, rugs, purses, and even jewelry.

Although giraffes are frequently hunted by lions, humans that hunt giraffes for sport has significantly contributed to the population decline. In some countries, hunting a giraffe is considered fun for the entire family. Some families pay tens of thousands of dollars for the privilege of hunting a giraffe. The giraffe is a very beautiful animal and considered a valuable prize in trophy hunting. Laws against hunting giraffes vary greatly across African countries, and even when illegal, there is little or nothing done to deter the hunters.

To ensure that the giraffe does not become another animal that has become extinct, action must be immediately taken. There need to be clear laws in place against the hunting of giraffes for sport. Many are conflicted because some families in need only hunt the giraffe for survival. Even still, guidelines for the amount of giraffe hunted need to be put in place immediately. Of course these laws will not be effective if they are not strictly enforced.

The countries in Africa should make it a priority to join together in conservation efforts to protect the West African and Nigerian giraffe, although this is something which is rarely top of the political agenda.