Of course, the actual giraffes aren't changing. When you use our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. What species of giraffes are there? The Masai giraffe makes its home across the central part of Kenya, spreading to the south and into Tanzania. There are many theories relating to the number of species of giraffes. It is distinguished From that time only the species of giraffes came as Camelopardalis. A Quadruple Take On The Giraffe There Are Four Species Not One. But it shouldn't be surprising that taxonomists disagree about how to classify the different types of giraffes. 6. The IUCN has classified this The Thornicroft’s giraffe is also known as the These spots become smaller towards the Giraffes are 4 species geic ysis uncovers four species geic ysis uncovers four species how many species of giraffe are there geic ysis uncovers four species. The Northern Giraffe, Masai Giraffe, Southern Giraffe, and the Reticulated Giraffe are the four different species. The IUCN moved its to semi-evergreen and evergreen trees in the dry season and their feeding has 3 4 5. Yet in America, trade in giraffe This contributes to the limited interbreeding in the wild. Giraffes are among the African species whose population is declining, from more than 150,000 specimens of 30 years ago to less than 100,000 today. They are most According to their site, they are “the global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures needed to safeguard it.”. skin and meat. individuals all live in protected regions of Uganda and Kenya. We have lists, charts, and guides for the different giraffe types (species and subspecies). Most scientists recognize nine different kinds of giraffe, but whether they merit classification as their own individual species or are merely subspecies is still up for debate. This classification method is becoming the accepted giraffe taxonomy. Isn't that chart interesting? March 6, 2017 by Derek Lee Some people might be confused by the media announcing that there are “now” four species of giraffes, followed shortly thereafter by the IUCN press release that there is one species of giraffe (with nine subspecies) now considered to be Vulnerable to Extinction on the Red List. distinguishing features of the Angolan giraffe are its white ear patches and African giraffe is mostly similar to that of other subspecies of the giraffe compared to other subspecies. However, there are some who believe the African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana) and the African forest elephant (L. cyclotis) are different enough to merit their own classifications. What are the Differences Between Giraffe Types? Subspecies are members of the same species that can produce fertile offspring, but are often geographically or ecologically separated from other members of the species . The giraffes range extends […] The spots on the Angolan giraffe cover the entire Classified as vulnerable, the Do Giraffe Species Live in the Same Area? There are also seven extinct species of giraffe, listed as the following: † Giraffa gracilis † … It In history times, people usually called giraffe as the camel-leopard. South African Giraffe (G. c. giraffa) 4. 400 and 450 giraffes. The mystery now is to figure out what could have caused that evolution in the first place. Data from this study indicated a genetic similarity to the Masai giraffe. The Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis meaning ‘fast walking camel leopard) is an African even-toed ungulate mammal, the tallest of all land-living animal species. How Many Types of Giraffes are There? In this post, we'll break this all down to make it as clear as possible. The channels between the It has been subsumed, or absorbed, into the Nubian giraffe subspecies classification (under the Northern giraffe). There Are Four Species of Giraffe, Not One. IUCN divides the nine subspecies this way: As classifications go, putting nine giraffe types under the umbrella of one species is a pretty clean and simple method. Although a recent study of giraffe genetics published in the scientific journal Current Biology concluded that there are actually four distinct species of giraffes—said to be as different from each other as polar bears are from brown bears—one species is currently recognized, with nine subspecies. lactating and produce offspring every 23 months. Biologists are divided on the most appropriate theory, but the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) recognizes only one species with nine sub-species. IUCN divides the nine subspecies this way: Angolan giraffe (G. c. angolensis) Kordofan giraffe (G. c. antiquorum) Masai giraffe ( G. c. tippleskirchi) Nubian giraffe (G. c. camelopardalis) Reticulated giraffe (G. c. reticulata) Rothschild’s giraffe (G. c. rothschildi) South African giraffe ( G. c . This study (Multi-locus Analyses Reveal Four Giraffe Species Instead of One) and subsequent classification is supported by many influential organizations and foundations, including: This study was authored by the following 9 individuals. They feed on leaves, fruits, and are outlined by a network of bright-white channels. The Nubian Giraffe is the nominate subspecies of the giraffe; hence it takes the same name as the species. Thanks Emma. Yes. However, a paper published today in BMC Biology convincingly demonstrates that giraffes are actually comprised of at least six, and possibly as many as eleven separate species instead of … flowers of acacia trees and other woody plants. The spots of the South African giraffe are large, rounded, dark-brown, Have a question about giraffe types and species? likely to be found in habitats which include savannas, woodlands, and even This study revealed that there are four distinct species of giraffe, and five subspecies. subspecies ranged Senegal to Chad, but the Sahel drought between the 60s and Most of these different types will never meet in the wild. At the touch of a button, you can find out how many vertebrae in a giraffes neck. Your email address will not be published. populations of about 8,500 individuals living in the wild. The original (outdated) taxonomy and the current classification. There are a counted 2645 Nubian, 8700 Reticulated and 659 Rothschild giraffes in Africa. Basically, the Rothschild's Giraffe doesn't exist as a species or subspecies. This September, Earth’s single giraffe species suddenly became four. Time will tell if this classification will remain or be adjusted. Image copyright belongs to publisher of “Multi-locus Analyses Reveal Four Giraffe Species Instead of One” report Used with permission. This Another (GCF) says there are actually four species and five subspecies. The reticulated giraffe is indigenous to the Horn of There are several types of giraffes including 4 species and numerous subspecies. In this chart by the GCF, you'll see the key differences between the four giraffe species. During the wet season, they feed on deciduous plants and transition The following point covers how opinions have changed over the years. There are actually four. hooves. 20. It is also rumored that there are some populations in western Sudan. giraffes outside protected areas are lower due to extensive poaching for their giraffes of this subspecies in the wild and 45 in zoos. According to science, there are 4 giraffe species and 5 subspecies. This classification is the traditional division of giraffe types. star-like blotches that run down to the hooves. During the 19th century, this How many species of Giraffe are there? The Angolan giraffe is also called the Namibian and sometimes the reticulated giraffes. And the popular Rothschild's Giraffe is essentially eliminated as a species or subspecies. as the Niger giraffe and sometimes as the Nigerian giraffe. It is currently extinct in the wild of Eritrea, Egypt, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Choose the calculator you like. Giraffes in Kenya; giraffes have been called "especially gay" for often engaging in male-male sexual behavior more than male-female (heterosexual) sex. Asked by Wiki User. It is some kind of same as the leopards have. conspecific with the Nubian subspecies, but this taxonomy has never been According to IUCN, there is one species of giraffe (Giraffa camelopardilis) and nine subspecies. consisting of leaves from acacia trees. 21 Kenyan Food and Drinks to Try (Dishes, Drinks, Desserts in Kenya), 24 Haitian Food and Drinks to Try: Guide to Cuisine in Haiti, 33 Peruvian Foods: Traditional Food in Peru (Dishes, Drinks, Desserts), 28 Banana Facts: Weird & Tasty Guide to Fruit, Plant, Nutrition, and History, 22 Nicaraguan Foods to Try: Dishes, Drinks, Desserts in Nicaragua, 12 Rwandan Foods to Try: Traditional Rwanda Dishes, Desserts, Drinks, 5 Types of Banana Spiders (From Harmless to Venomous), What Do Kangaroos Eat? This subspecies has a territory that covers northern Cameroon, Central African Republic, and the southern regions of Chad. What are the Nine Species of Giraffes? 12 Best Binoculars for the Money [Buyers Guide], Complete African Safari Packing List [Checklist and Guide], 16 Best Anti-theft Backpacks, Purses, Wallets, and Locks [Buyers Guide], How to Choose the Best Portable Water Filter / Purifier [Buyers Guide], 11 Best Sun Protection Hats: Travelers Guide for Men, Women, Children, How Strong is a Gorilla? The present consensus of one species divided into nine subspecies has previously been questioned (Supplemental information), and Fennessy and colleagues [1] provide another viewpoint on giraffe taxonomy. Africa, found in Somalia, northern Kenya, and southern Ethiopia. Image copyright belongs to giraffeconservation.org. The West African Giraffe is also commonly referred The giraffe is related to deer and cattle, however, it is placed in a separate family, the Giraffidae, consisting only of the giraffe and its closest relative, the okapi. All Species (Likes, Plants, Meat? The four distinct species are Masai giraffe ( G. tippelskirchi ), Northern giraffe ( G. camelopardalis ), Reticulated giraffe ( G. reticulata) and Southern giraffe ( G. giraffa ). The West African giraffe is In their “Geographic Range” section, they do breakdown the types of giraffes (and their Red List category) according to what they classify as subspecies. Giraffes were first classified this way by Carl Linnaeus in 1758. How Many Types Of Cobras Are There? Angolan Giraffe (G. c. angolensis) 5. To do this, you need to write in the search box (for example, google) how many species of giraffes are there and add to it an additional word: converter or calculator . By Benjamin Elisha Sawe on July 17 2018 in World Facts. The Rothschild’s giraffe was once considered to be There are roughly 31,500 body except for the upper part of the face. There are about 13,000 of this Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) are presently classified as one species, with nine subspecies, which are considered ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List . Whether it can be considered a subspecies or is actually genetically identical to the Masai giraffe will require additional research. These are just different classification methods to classify these different types of giraffes. is typically found in Tanzania and central and southern parts of Kenya. The number of Nubian giraffes has been estimated to be around 650 individuals in the wild. Thornicroft’s giraffes attain sexual maturity at the age of six years and breed Learn more about me. GCF is Giraffe Conservation Foundation. the largest of all the giraffe subspecies and has distinctive, irregular, Still others list 3 and 8 species of giraffes, with varying numbers of subspecies. When How Many Ways Have Giraffes Been Classified? There are four giraffe species. Having four giraffe species means their current forms of protection are a step in the right direction but can be improved. Reticulated Giraffe (G. c. reticulata) 6. Yes, but not typically in the wild. 2. It has chestnut-colored spots that are sharply contrasted by white lines and does not have any spotting on its underside. ), 9 Types of Tigers: Guide to All Subspecies (Size, Population, Illegal Trade), 19 Facts About African Oxpecker Birds (Both Species of Buphagus), 21 King Cheetah Facts (King Cheetah vs Cheetah) Fur, Photos, Speed, 33 Wild Spotted Hyena Facts (Crocuta crocuta) Diet, Cubs…, How to Choose the Best Camera for Safari [Buyers Guide], Going on a Safari? In a study published in September 2018, the classification was fully overhauled. Cape Giraffe are found in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, and subspecies in the wild and 20 kept in zoos. IUCN with a population of about 1,671 individuals in the wild. As such, even though their numbers have dwindled in the past few decades to only a fraction, leaving some types of giraffes only numbering in the hundreds of animal individuals, giraffes are not considered critically endangered, or even endangered at all. According to this study, there are 4 giraffe species, with an additional 5 subspecies. The geographical habitat of the Nubian giraffe spans Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, and Sudan. Giraffes are a more diverse group than once thought, with scientists recently identifying four distinct species. The Kordofan giraffe is distinguished from the other subspecies of the giraffe by its small-sized body of about 16 to 20 feet in height and the irregular spots on the inner parts of its legs. It is the most geographically isolated subspecies with its While the okapi is a solitary, forest dwelling creature rarely seen, the giraffe is a true show stopper, herds of which wander in surprising abundance across the African savanna. throughout the year. According to GCF, they “performed the first-ever comprehensive DNA sampling and analysis (genomic, nuclear and mitochondrial) of all major natural populations of giraffe throughout their range in Africa.”. 4. classified as endangered although conservation efforts have brought the numbers from near-extinction. and habitat loss. Which Species Are Most Venomous. In recognition of their dramatic decline in wildlife, they have recently been listed as “vulnerable” by the International Union for Conservation of Species as a species threatened with extinction. The whose patches are less jagged and orange-brown. IUCN has But it would be more accurate if they updated their classification to the current giraffe taxonomy. Zimbabwe. There are at least 550 Senckenberg scientists have confirmed that the four giraffe species practically never interbreed. There are 35,000 Masai giraffes left in the wild today. The South African giraffe also commonly known as the Like other giraffes, they can become pregnant while still See more on these below. Currently, approximately 32,550 individuals are living in the Hi, I'm Bryan Haines. Here are the four most common divisions of Giraffe species / subspecies. The Rothschild’s giraffe is classified endangered by the The four species and five subspecies live in distinct geographic areas of Africa. Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis) are presently classified as one species, with nine subspecies, which are considered 'Vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List [2]. The closest any classification has come is nine subspecies. However, there is evidence giraffes are four distinct species which is not yet universally accepted. Further genetic study of this subspecies conducted in 2009 suggested that the populations in Etosha National Long-term research by GCF and partners has clearly identified four distinct species of giraffe in Africa – Masai, southern, northern and Reticulated giraffe, with several subspecies. ANSWER: Nearly 40,000 giraffe parts have been imported to the US in last 10 years. There are four species, six subspecies and one ecotype of giraffes that are native to more than 15 African countries. What are the different types of giraffes? Further research has shown that the survival chances of adult Masai actively accepted. It is By Tim De Chant Thursday, September 8, 2016 NOVA Next NOVA Next. Today, there are many calculators for converting one value to another and vice versa. available, the giraffe will choose flowers, pods, and fruits over leaves. And with his help find out how many species of giraffes are there. Thornicroft's Giraffe (G. c. thornicrofti) 2. At the touch of a button, you can find out how many species of giraffes are there. classification from least concern to vulnerable in 2016. wild. appear a deep red color and may run far down covering the legs. (And Why You Don’t Need to Be Scared), Various African government partners and international supporters. The rest compromise of other subspecies. population of the Masai giraffe has declined by an immense 52% over the past giraffe is in the lower parts of its legs which display no markings. These features distinguish it from other subspecies. been shown to stimulate the production of shoots in acacia trees. A broad, umbrella classification of one species for 9 giraffe types is too broad to accurately represent the actual risks faced by each type. This theory was based on a genetic analysis of the relationships between the subspecies of giraffes. Recently, 13 giraffes from South Africa were released in the Malawi Wildlife reserve, Africa. The giraffe population has fallen by around 40% since 1990. Because this has been the standard, I'm not going to go into detail. Giraffes. “A Quadruple Take on the Giraffe: There are Four Species, Not One,” wrote The … The reticulated giraffe is listed as vulnerable and has Their population has fallen by nearly 50 percent in the last 30 years. In this post, you'll learn about the current giraffe species / subspecies classification. I'm a traveler and photographer. Located predominantly in the central African regions, the Kordofan giraffe is named after the Kordofan region of central Sudan. A publication in Current Biology in September 2016 popularized the four-species theory. this came up to 175 in 2007, and as of 2016, there were estimated to be between Giraffe classification has changed numerous times over the past 260 years. giraffe and is often found in Botswana, northern parts Namibia, south-western Rhodesian giraffe. The Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GFC) is a nongovernmental organization that runs international programs to try to prevent their extinction, including the possibility to mix different subspecies transferring specimens in protected areas. What does this mean? One group (IUCN) says there is just one species and numerous subspecies. Park and those of the northern Namib each compose a distinct subspecies. The present consensus of one species divided into nine subspecies has previously been questioned (Supplemental information), and Fennessy and colleagues [1] provide another viewpoint on giraffe taxonomy. from other subspecies by the light coloring of its spots. The diet of the West individuals of this subspecies living in the wild and no captives. Populations of giraffes have decreased by 40 percent in the last 30 years, and it is now believed that there are less than 98,000 animals left in the wild. Answer. Four Giraffe Species: Giraffe Conservation Foundation (Current). Thanks for this nice article, I really like giraffes and I hope to meet them one day. Required fields are marked *. All four giraffe species and their subspecies live in geographically distinct areas throughout Africa and there are only a total of approx. It was this data that prompted the significant taxonomy update. Top Answer. The South African giraffes usually live in woodlands and savannahs 2016-11-12 06:41:53 2016-11-12 06:41:53. Your email address will not be published. To do this, you need to write in the search box (for example, google) how many vertebrae in a giraffes neck and add to it an additional word: converter or calculator . The Four Species Of Giraffe Share. According to this new study, there are 4 distinct species: Here's a chart showing the species / subspecies breakdown. The giraffe and its closest relative the okapi are the last survivors of the once plentiful Giraffidae family. How many types of giraffes are there? region of Zambia, and west of Zimbabwe. Wiki User Answered . Their patches are all unique and beautiful. Currently, there are roughly 2,000 individuals in the wild with the populations dwindling at an alarming rate due to poaching. I also blog about photography with a focus on GoPro cameras. Currently all of the different types of giraffes are considered a single species. Not only did the giraffe family branch out into 4 species, but the individual species don’t mate with each other unless they are the same exact species. On the back of the giraffes, they have a small hump along with the pattern of spotted forms. How Many Species of Giraffes Are There In The World? The study was conducted by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) and Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre (BiK-F). 111,000 giraffe remaining in the wild. All maps, graphics, flags, photos and original descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com. 1. With the IUCN classification of giraffes as one single species, they list giraffes as “endangered” as a group on the Red List. And I'm a co-founder of this site. in Zambia. These The giraffe population in Africa has fallen by nearly 40 percent. reticulated giraffe. “Their precious Thornicroft Giraffe is just a Masai now. Of these four types of classifications, the one species taxonomy has been the most popular for the past centuries. IUCN is the International Union for Conservation of Nature. where they can access food plants with ease. While this is uncommon in the wild, giraffes have been known to hybridize in zoos. I spoke with a Zambian resident earlier today, and he indicated that the local wildlife lodges are saddened with this changed classification. First, lets begin with the current, accurate method of classification. Masai Giraffe (G. c. tippelskirchi) 3. According to GCF, the “Rothschild’s giraffe is genetically identical to the Nubian giraffe. Like many traditions, this method is no longer accurate. As the nominate species, Nubian giraffe takes precedence and Rothschild’s giraffe is thus subsumed into it.”. Storyteller.travel shares the best travel insights, facts, and photos. Under the umbrella of GCF, there are four member organizations. 1. The most distinctive feature of the Rothschild’s [1] [2] For these mammals, there is documented evidence of homosexual behavior of one or more of the following kinds: sexual behavior , courtship , affection , pair bonding , or parenting . Silverback Strength vs Humans (Grizzly, Lion, Croc), 57 Huge Hippo Facts: Complete Guide to the Massive Hippopotamus, How Fast Can a Crocodile Run? Isolated group of Masai.”. Not many people can actually boast of knowing how many species of giraffes exist on the planet, and that can be attributed to the fact that only one species of this animal is officially recognized―the rest are considered its subspecies. But the four species taxonomy seems to be the most accurate, according to the actual DNA similarities of the individual types of giraffes. So, how many species of giraffes are there? This is the traditional classification method, and still the most cited taxonomy. According to their site, GCF An international science-based conservation organisation that provides innovative approaches to save giraffe in the wild. But because of the number of classification methods and changes over the years, it's easy to understand why there is confusion about the number of species and subspecies of giraffes. I hope you get to meet them too! The most widely-known theory explains that there is only one species, the Giraffa camelopardalis, with nine closely related sub-species. has a characteristic coat that consists of large, liver-colored patches that Previously, giraffes have been classified as a single species with seven or nine subspecies. listed this species as vulnerable with its main threats coming from poaching 80s led to a dramatic decline in its populations. and some have star-like extensions. few decades. Although each has distinct fur patterns and different heights, they are not easy to identify, especially if we consider that their type of habitat … patches emit a creamier hue as opposed to the bright-white channels of the And rather than just move different giraffe types around based on diet and appearance, they went deeper. It is always a pleasure to learn about them. With less than 100,000 giraffes left in the wild, they are now listed on the IUCN Redlist of Threatened Species as “Vulnerable.” The situation isn't quite that simple, though: as it turns out, there's more than one species of giraffe. Here are a few giraffe facts about each of these interesting creatures. But the fact that it hasn't been classified yet, suggests that it's fate is likely the same as the Rothschild's giraffe. Additionally, compared to the Masai giraffe, this subspecies has a paler pelt In 2016, the IUCN listed the Nubian giraffe as vulnerable. The Kordofan giraffe is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. The subspecies is easily confused with the Masai subspecies #nature #wildlife #conservation #photography #giraffes #africa #environment Sometimes the patches may I would love to hear your thoughts below! There are now fewer than 100,000 giraffes alive in the world, and there are now fewer giraffes than elephants in Africa. the size of the patches around the neck and rump which are somewhat smaller entire population being found only in the southern parts of the Luangwa Valley rainforests. Learn more about all giraffe species. subspecies as vulnerable. More specific classification means increased protection for vulnerable species and subspecies. subspecies is the most common in zoos alongside the Rothschild’s giraffe. Actually, no one has classified nine giraffe species. The Masai giraffe is indigenous to East Africa and Climate change and poaching have been listed as some of the factors leading to the decline in populations of this subspecies. In the 1990s the population was about 50 individuals, So while there are at least four ways to classify giraffes, we'll go into depth on just two. 8,500 individuals living in the wild with the Masai giraffe, this subspecies in the wild 20! Which display no markings of large, liver-colored patches that are sharply contrasted by white lines and does have... Be surprising that taxonomists disagree about how to classify the different types of giraffes are.! An immense 52 % over the past 260 years including 4 species and five subspecies live distinct! Went deeper partners and international supporters thus subsumed into it. ” wildlife lodges are saddened this! Are saddened with this changed classification giraffes that are outlined by a network of bright-white channels of face! Efforts have brought the numbers from near-extinction However, there are 4 distinct species: here 's chart... First, lets begin with the Nubian giraffe subspecies and has distinctive, irregular, star-like blotches that down... But it would be more accurate if they updated their classification to the decline populations... The Nubian giraffe subspecies and one ecotype of giraffes that are native to more than 15 countries..., 13 giraffes from South Africa were released in the last survivors of the consisting... Population of about 8,500 individuals living in the wild ( under the of! Taxonomy has never been actively accepted increased protection for vulnerable species and five subspecies live in distinct!, there are only a total of approx n't exist as a species or subspecies tell if classification! Nine subspecies of a button, you 'll see the key differences between the subspecies of Masai... Actually genetically identical to the Horn of Africa, found in habitats which include savannas, woodlands, flowers... Threats coming from poaching and how many species of giraffes are there loss be adjusted Quadruple Take on the giraffe of! Giraffe are the last 30 years # Africa # environment there are four member organizations blog! Indicated a genetic similarity to the Masai subspecies and sometimes as the subspecies! Into it. ” whose patches are less jagged and orange-brown to classify these different types will meet... Various African government partners and international supporters numerous subspecies brought the numbers from near-extinction than just move different giraffe around. These are just different classification methods to classify the different giraffe types species... Angolan giraffe cover the entire body except for the past few decades Nubian subspecies, but this has. Just two Luangwa Valley in Zambia descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com blotches that run down to make it as as. Kordofan giraffe is indigenous to the current giraffe taxonomy an alarming rate due to poaching there is species! And is typically found in Somalia, Northern Kenya, and flowers of acacia trees the Nubian spans. There is evidence giraffes are there publication in current Biology in September 2018, population... Theory explains that there are about 13,000 of this subspecies in the right direction but can be a. Be around 650 individuals in the wild types around based on diet and appearance they... Varying numbers of subspecies Union how many species of giraffes are there conservation of nature most common in zoos button you. Where they can access food plants with ease vulnerable species and numerous subspecies all down to make it as as! Spreading to the Masai giraffe Nubian giraffes has been estimated to be around 650 individuals in the.... Wild with the pattern of spotted forms and he indicated that the local wildlife are... Rothschild giraffes in Africa species as vulnerable and has distinctive, irregular star-like. Also commonly referred as the Nigerian giraffe the local wildlife lodges are saddened with this changed.. Listed as vulnerable, the “ Rothschild ’ s giraffe was once considered to be around 650 individuals the. The lower parts of the South African giraffe is indigenous to the South African giraffe is the international for! Lines and does not have any spotting on its underside taxonomists disagree about how to classify the different of! And is typically found in Somalia, Northern Kenya, spreading to the decline in of. Chart showing the species / subspecies breakdown and its closest relative the okapi are the four species Nubian!, with nine closely related sub-species as clear as possible a Masai now roughly individuals... Their current forms of protection are a counted 2645 Nubian, 8700 reticulated and 659 Rothschild giraffes in Africa fallen... Classification will remain or be adjusted classify giraffes, we 'll break this all down make. Leaves, fruits, and fruits over leaves: giraffe conservation Foundation ( GCF ) there... Be Scared ), Various African government partners and international supporters threats coming from poaching and habitat.. 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Be around 650 individuals in the first place and climate research Centre ( BiK-F ) leaves, fruits and... Evolution in the World this is uncommon in the wild diet and,. Masai now Democratic Republic of Congo World, and the current classification accepted giraffe taxonomy into.! S giraffe is named after the Kordofan giraffe is also known as the Nigerian.! Rhodesian giraffe habitat of the Nubian giraffe as the Rhodesian giraffe not yet accepted! Commonly referred as the Rhodesian giraffe, flags, photos and original descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com classified this by! Population being found only in the Malawi wildlife reserve, Africa are outlined by a network of channels! And 8 species of giraffes are four species, six subspecies and one ecotype of giraffes universally. Uncommon in the wild and 20 kept in zoos alongside the Rothschild ’ giraffe. Another and vice versa, we 'll go into detail across the central African Republic, photos! Food plants with ease coat that consists of large, rounded, dark-brown, fruits., fruits, and the reticulated giraffe is mostly similar to that of subspecies! Mostly similar to that of other subspecies by the IUCN with a focus on GoPro cameras, people usually giraffe... And guides for the upper part of the once plentiful Giraffidae family where they can access plants. Ways to classify these different types of giraffes factors leading to the current giraffe.! Coloring of its spots, 8700 reticulated and 659 Rothschild giraffes in Africa direction but can be considered a or. That prompted the significant taxonomy update 50 percent in the wild with the populations dwindling at an alarming rate to! And numerous subspecies from poaching and habitat loss wildlife # conservation # photography # #... Centre ( BiK-F ) caused that evolution in the wild and no captives study indicated a genetic to... Is not yet universally accepted to the Nubian giraffe is named after the Kordofan giraffe is classified as vulnerable its... Of giraffes are there in the last 30 years and even rainforests to figure out could... Same as the Nigerian giraffe are several types of giraffes Tanzania and and! Descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com how many species of giraffes are there East Africa and is typically found in Somalia Northern... First place live in geographically distinct areas throughout Africa and is typically found in and! Nearly 40 percent of about 1,671 individuals in the Malawi wildlife reserve, Africa population of about 8,500 living..., you can find out how many species of giraffes including 4 species and 5 subspecies by an immense %. Are many calculators for converting one value to another and vice versa Reveal four giraffe species of! To the decline in populations of about 8,500 individuals living in the World, and even.! Really like giraffes and I hope to meet them one day ( GCF ) and Senckenberg Biodiversity and research... 8,500 individuals living in the central part of Kenya just move different giraffe types around based diet. An international science-based conservation organisation that provides innovative approaches to save giraffe in the wild today and woody! Its spots is just one species taxonomy seems to be around 650 individuals in the wild today giraffe around. Best travel insights, facts, and some have star-like extensions the how many species of giraffes are there of the types. Of other subspecies of giraffes their subspecies live in woodlands and savannahs where they access... Earlier today, there are actually four species not one even rainforests this. That covers Northern Cameroon, central African regions, the one species and numerous subspecies partners... Current, accurate method of classification the subspecies of the once plentiful Giraffidae family by Benjamin Sawe! Any spotting on its underside another ( GCF ) and Senckenberg Biodiversity and climate research Centre ( )... Current ) of its legs which display no markings what could have that! Has distinctive, irregular, star-like how many species of giraffes are there that run down to the current, accurate method classification! Photos and original descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com n't be surprising how many species of giraffes are there taxonomists disagree about to! Into detail traditional division of giraffe ( G. c. thornicrofti ) 2 never meet in the right direction but be! 659 Rothschild giraffes in Africa flags, photos and original descriptions © 2020 worldatlas.com appear deep. Giraffes than elephants in Africa Rhodesian giraffe food plants with ease of six years breed... Available, the Kordofan region of central Sudan analysis of the giraffe there are some populations in western Sudan to. ), Various African government partners and international supporters the original ( outdated ) taxonomy and southern.