U.S. Proposes Endangered Status for Giraffe Subspecies

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing several subspecies of giraffes as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act due to drastic population declines. Giraffe numbers have plummeted by approximately 40% since the 1980s, with northern giraffes experiencing a particularly severe reduction of 77% since 1985. Key threats include poaching, habitat loss, urbanization, and climate change-induced droughts. The proposal aims to curb illegal hunting and the trade of giraffe parts in the U.S., a major market for such items, while increasing conservation funding and research efforts. If enacted, these protections would help preserve biodiversity and foster ecosystem health. This initiative follows years of advocacy and a legal push for action, and it remains subject to a public comment period and potential political changes.