How new science is changing giraffe conservation

These four distinct genetic lines, or clades, have been named as follows:

Northern giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis). The most threatened species. It survives in scattered populations across East and Central Africa, with three subspecies. Habitat loss, poaching, and political instability continue to drive its decline.

Reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata). Known for its striking geometric coat pattern, this endangered species occurs mainly in northern Kenya, southern Ethiopia, and Somalia. More than 95 per cent live outside formal protected areas, underscoring the need for community-led conservation.

The conservation implications extend beyond individual species. Giraffes are wide-ranging browsers that depend on connected landscapes to access seasonal food sources, water, and breeding opportunities. As agriculture, infrastructure development, and human settlement continue to fragment habitats across Africa, maintaining ecological connectivity is becoming increasingly important for the long-term survival of many giraffe populations.

Masai giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi). Africa's largest giraffe species. Two subspecies are identified, found in Kenya and Tanzania. Numbers have fallen by almost half over the past few decades owing to habitat fragmentation and bushmeat hunting.

Both the reticulated and Masai giraffes are classified as endangered, read more about them and other giraffes here.

Southern giraffe (Giraffa giraffa). The conservation success story. Thanks to protected areas, translocations and effective management, populations have recovered across much of southern Africa. Found in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and parts of Zimbabwe, it is the most numerous and least threatened species. Two subspecies are identified.