Research explores the social life of one of Africa's most iconic animals

Abstract

Giraffes, like so many species in Africa, are under threat. While scientifically inaccurate cultural beliefs exist which claim that lion bone, rhino horn and pangolin scales have health benefits for humans, certain cultures consider the giraffe's tail to be a status symbol. According to Leon Lamprecht, joint operations director for African Parks, men 'use the tail as a dowry to the bride's father if they want to ask for the hand of a bride.' Sadly, the giraffe population has been steadily declining over the last few decades, but it is only recently that researchers noticed this and recognised the species as being under threat. Giraffes are now listed as a threatened species, according the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and it is said there are currently fewer giraffes than elephants in Africa. Threats to their survival include habitat loss, illegal hunting for bushmeat and trophy hunting. But thanks to research taking place at the University of Pretoria, there is a greater understanding of this species.