Three giraffe subspecies, the West African, Kordofan, and Nubian, are proposed to be added to the endangered species list by U.S. officials due to their declining populations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also proposed listing the reticulated giraffe and the Masai giraffe as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The main threats to giraffes include poaching, habitat loss, climate change, human population growth, and urbanization. The proposed listing would help protect giraffes by reducing illegal hunting and trade and requiring permits for importing giraffes into the U.S.
The population of the three subspecies has declined by 77% since 1985, with the number of West African giraffes reaching only 690. The reticulated giraffe population is primarily in Kenya, while Masai giraffes have decreased by 67% since the 1970s. Giraffes are known for being the tallest terrestrial animals and primarily feed on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruit.
Listing the giraffe subspecies as endangered would increase funding for conservation efforts in their range countries, support research initiatives, and provide financial assistance to conservation programs. The proposal is open for public comment for 90 days. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams emphasized that federal protections for giraffes are essential for preserving biodiversity, combating wildlife trafficking, and promoting sustainable economic practices.
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