The Okapi (Okapia johnstoni), is a relative of the giraffe and because of the stripes on its leg bears some resemblance to a zebra. This was the reason for some people to believe it was a cross-breed, but it really isn't. It lives in the forest in the Democratic republic of Congo, where it is threatened by deforestation and and poaching. The "zebra markings" are believed to function as a beacon for the young to follow their mother in the dense forests. Did you know that the okapi is one of the few mammals that can lick its own ears? Picture by Raul654 on January 16, 2005, licensed under GDFL
Which zoos have them?
Brookfield Zoo (United States), Los Angeles Zoo (United States) and Saint Louis Zoological Park (United States)The Okapi is listed as Near Threatened (LR/nt), is close to qualifying for or is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future, on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Some facts about the
Okapi
Adult weight : 225 kg (495 lbs)
Maximum longevity : 34 years
Female maturity :578 days
Male maturity : 790 days
Gestation : 458 days
Weaning : 194 days
Litter size : 1
Litters per year : 1
Weight at birth : 16 kg (35.2 lbs)
Weight at weaning : 77 kg (169.4 lbs)
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