Genetic evaluation has reclassified giraffes into four distinct species: Northern, Reticulated, Masai, and Southern, replacing the previous single-species model with nine subspecies. Each species occupies different parts of Africa and displays distinguishing physical characteristics such as long thin ossicones, exceptional height, or leaf-like coat patterns. Each species has different population sizes, threats and conservation needs. Recognising species-level differences enables accurate IUCN Red List assessments, targeted conservation actions, and coordinated cross-border management. More precise taxonomy improves the ability to assess status and implement effective conservation strategies for each giraffe species.
It is undoubtedly one of the most majestic creatures in the animal kingdom. But it turns out there's not just one species of giraffe. In fact, there are four. Scientists from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) have confirmed that the Northern Giraffe, Reticulated Giraffe, Masai Giraffe, and Southern Giraffe are distinct from one another. Despite looking eerily similar, these species are actually as different as brown and polar bears!
Michael Brown, a researchers in Windhoek, Namibia, who led the assessment, explained: 'Each species has different population sizes, threats and conservation needs. When you lump giraffes all together, it muddies the narrative. 'Recognising these four species is vital not only for accurate IUCN Red List assessments, targeted conservation action and coordinated management across national borders. 'The more precisely we understand giraffe taxonomy, the better equipped we are to assess their status and implement effective conservation strategies.'
These species can be found across the African continent. The Northern Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) is found in Chad, Central African Republic, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan, and is known for its long and thin ossicones - the bony structures found on giraffes' heads. The Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) lives in Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, and is the largest of the four species - reaching impressive heights of up to six metres.
Collection
[
|
...
]