Race against time to save Critically Endangered giraffe

Experts at Bristol Zoological Society are working to help safeguard the future of Kordofan giraffe which have just been assessed as Critically Endangered. It is estimated that as few as 2,000 individuals of this sub-species may be left in Africa.

Dr Gráinne McCabe, head of field conservation and science at Bristol Zoological Society, said in 30 years there had been a fall of 80 per cent in the giraffe population and it was vital action was taken.

She said: “It is a race against time. They are iconic animals, a vital part of the African landscape and very important to the eco-system. But we could lose them within our lifetime if we don’t do something about it.”

The main threat to Kordofan giraffe has been competition for food with herders bringing their cattle into the national park and stripping leaves from the trees. This leaves little food for giraffe during the prolonged dry season.

Bristol Zoological Society is helping to fund eco-guards to patrol the Bénoué National Park and a network of other protected areas in northern Cameroon. These patrols have already led to a drop in illegal activity. The society has also helped to pay for camera traps. Pictures from the cameras are then sent back to Bristol by a programme manager based in Cameroon.

Dr McCabe said: “We are able to make an impact by spending relatively small amounts because we have spent time on the ground in Cameroon and worked with the National Park team to come up with effective solutions that can be implemented quickly and efficiently.” Dr McCabe said if anyone was able to offer financial support to help Bristol Zoological Society save the Kordofan giraffe she would be delighted to hear from them. Please contact at [email protected].