The reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) predominantly occurs across northern and northeastern Kenya, with small isolated populations that may still exist in the southern parts of Somalia and Ethiopia.
Sadly, the reticulated giraffe population has experienced a significant decline. Approximately 16,000 individuals remain in the wild, representing a more than 50% decrease from the estimated 36,000 individuals present 35 years ago.
Due to this alarming decline, the reticulated giraffe was added to the IUCN Red List in 2018 as Endangered. Nevertheless, positive community-based, government and private land conservation developments in northern Kenya are helping populations to recover.
Interestingly, over 95% of reticulated giraffe reside outside government-managed protected areas. This emphasizes the crucial importance of engaging communities and private stakeholders in their long-term conservation.
The reticulated giraffe derives their name from the striking network of white lines that clearly define their rich orange-brown patches. These lines extend along the entire length of their legs and are often prominent in their face, creating a distinctive appearance.
