Poaching remains a devastating issue that continues to challenge efforts for eradication. Whether for trophies or unfounded medicinal beliefs, the illegal act persists.
Reports of slain elephants and rhinos have sadly become somewhat commonplace. However, news from Kenya today has shed light on a new tragedy.
In January 2016, two rare white giraffes were spotted in a national park in Tanzania. Eventually, they migrated to Kenya, where captivating images of them were taken.
Poachers Strike
Nevertheless, conservationists made a grim discovery last week as they found the lifeless bodies of these incredibly rare animals. The harsh reality is that they fell victim to poachers, as confirmed here.
This is a very sad day for the community and Kenya as a whole. Killing this pair is a blow to those dedicated to preserving rare species and serves as a wake-up call for the conservation community,” expressed the lead conservation manager in a press release.
Endangered Status
Giraffes are already classified as vulnerable, indicating they face a heightened risk of extinction in the foreseeable future.
The white giraffes in question are even more imperiled, with reports suggesting that only one may now be left – a male, believed to be the offspring of the deceased mother.
Leucism Phenomenon
The unique white hue of these giraffes is attributed to leucism, a condition where the skin produces less pigment. This results in a milder form of albinism, characterized by dark eyes and a lack of sun sensitivity.
Watch a video featuring the giraffes from August 2017:
Heartbreaking! It is a collective responsibility to prevent the extinction of these majestic creatures!
