Giraffes in Crisis: U.S. Proposes Federal Protections to Save the Tallest Mammals on Earth

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed endangered and threatened listings for several giraffe species to combat declining populations caused by poaching, habitat loss, and climate change. Learn about the critical steps being taken to protect these iconic animals and foster global conservation efforts.

Feature Story: U.S. Takes Action to Protect Giraffes as Populations Plummet

Byline: Washington Bureau

Towering above the African savanna, giraffes have long been symbols of grace and resilience. But these majestic creatures face an alarming decline due to habitat destruction, poaching, and the impacts of climate change. In a groundbreaking effort to curb their slide toward extinction, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing federal protections under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for several giraffe species.

The proposal includes listing all three subspecies of northern giraffe—found across west, central, and east Africa—as endangered. Additionally, two giraffe species from east Africa, the reticulated and Masai giraffes, are proposed as threatened, with tailored protections under a 4(d) rule designed to balance conservation with economic considerations. Southern giraffes, while not directly at risk, are also recommended for threatened status due to their similarity in appearance to listed subspecies, which could complicate enforcement.

Why Giraffes Need Help

“Federal protections for giraffes will help protect a vulnerable species, foster biodiversity, support ecosystem health, combat wildlife trafficking, and promote sustainable economic practices,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams.

Giraffes are critically threatened by the relentless pressures of human activity. Their habitats are shrinking as urbanization and agriculture spread, leaving giraffes to navigate fragmented ecosystems. Poaching for bushmeat and the trade of giraffe parts—used in traditional medicine or valued as trophies—exacerbate their plight. Climate change adds to the strain, intensifying droughts and increasing human-wildlife conflicts.

By the Numbers: A Grim Reality

• Northern giraffe: Population down by 77% since 1985, with just 5,919 individuals remaining. Only 690 West African giraffes survive.

• Reticulated giraffe: About 15,985 individuals, with 99% in Kenya.

• Masai giraffe: Population halved since the 1970s, now at 45,402.

A Global Icon at Risk

Giraffes are the tallest terrestrial animals on Earth, famed for their long necks and intricate patterns. They inhabit diverse habitats, from deserts to woodlands, but are most often found in savannas and near tree clusters, where they feed on a variety of leaves, stems, and fruits.

Despite their ecological versatility, their numbers are dwindling across their range in sub-Saharan Africa. Conservationists warn that if immediate action is not taken, future generations may only encounter giraffes in zoos.

Proposed Protections: What’s Next?

The proposed rule, set to publish in the Federal Register on November 21, 2024, seeks to mitigate threats by:

• Restricting the import of giraffe parts into the U.S. without permits, curbing illegal trade.

• Funding global conservation programs and research to address giraffe population needs.

• Raising awareness of giraffe conservation challenges and solutions.

Public comments on the proposal will be accepted until February 19, 2025, after which the Service will finalize the rule.

What You Can Do

Giraffes’ survival depends on collective action. The U.S. proposal highlights the interconnectedness of global conservation efforts. As citizens, contributing to organizations dedicated to wildlife protection, supporting sustainable practices, and staying informed can make a difference.

For more details, visit www.regulations.gov, docket no. FWS-HQ-ES-2024-0157.

Let’s stand tall for giraffes before it’s too late.