Last week, a three-year-old male okapi arrived at Diergaarde Blijdorp. The young animal originated from Basel Zoo. In Rotterdam, the male -named Toka- will be introduced to the four females present. The hope is that he will be able to welcome offspring in the near future. This is crucial for the survival of this illustrious animal. The new male can be seen by the public starting today.
Endangered species Okapis are related to giraffes and are also called forest giraffes. These shy animals are found only in the impenetrable rainforest of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where they are endangered. Due to deforestation, more and more habitat is disappearing. They are also hunted by local people for their meat and fur. Furthermore, the region is politically very unstable and embroiled in civil wars. Therefore, it is important that zoos build a genetically healthy reserve population. Antwerp Zoo coordinates the population management program to conserve and protect these special animals and collaborates internationally with various zoos, including Diergaarde Blijdorp. Nature conservation in Congo In their native region, Blijdorp has supported the Okapi Conservation Project for many years. This foundation protects the reserve in the Ituri Forest where the okapis live and promotes sustainable agriculture. The local population is closely involved with the foundation. History Blijdorp has a long history with okapis. In 1957, Rotterdam received its first two okapis, and the first young were born in 1960. Rotterdam blood is now represented in the current okapi population in Europe and the Americas.
