Okapi: The Zebra-Giraffe Hybrid You've Never Heard Of

September 29, 2024

Despite their zebra-like stripes, okapis are actually most closely related to giraffes. They share the same long necks and ossicones (horn-like structures).

Zebra-Giraffe Hybrid

Okapis have incredibly long tongues that they use to reach leaves high in trees, clean their ears, and even scratch their backs!

Long, Prehensile Tongues

These elusive animals are primarily solitary, coming together only to mate. They have a well-developed sense of smell and hearing, which helps them communicate and avoid predators.

Solitary Creatures

Okapis are only found in the Democratic Republic of Congo and are considered endangered due to habitat loss, poaching, and conflict.

Endangered Species

While they are primarily diurnal, okapis can also be active at night, especially during the rainy season.

Nocturnal Habits