Mohamed, Hussein AliAbdullahi, AliNungula, Emmanuely Z.Gitari, Harun2024-03-112024-03-112023-12Ali, M.H., Ali, A., Nungula, E.Z. and Gitari, H. (2023). Effect of Extreme Drought on Reticulated Giraffe Population in Northeastern, Kenya. Int. J. Bioresource Sci., 10(02): 173-183.DOI: 10.30954/2347-9655.02.2023.4https://ir-library.ku.ac.ke/handle/123456789/27730ArticleOccurrence of severe drought in northeastern Kenya has emerged as a critical threat to the giraffe population in the region, exacerbating a multitude of pre-existing challenges. The primary concern stems from the drying up of acacia trees, a crucial feed source for giraffes. As these trees wither due to the prolonged drought, the giraffes are confronted with a diminishing feed supply, leading to malnutrition and an alarming decline in their overall population. One immediate consequence of the drought is the migration of giraffes to neighboring countries such as Ethiopia and Somalia in search of sustenance. Unfortunately, the situation in these regions, particularly Somalia, has been aggravated by persistent civil unrest since 1991. The ongoing conflict not only exacerbates the challenges faced by giraffes but also poses additional threats to their survival. The violence and instability in these areas hinder conservation efforts, making it more difficult to implement protective measures and conservation programs. Beyond the drought and migration, giraffes in northeastern Kenya are grappling with a host of other issues. Habitat loss, primarily driven by human activities such as deforestation and land development, further diminishes the available living space for giraffes. The encroachment of agriculture, expanding settlements, and infrastructure development contribute to the shrinking of their natural habitats. HIGHLIGHTS m Reticulated giraffes (Giraffa Camelopardalis. reticulata) are a subspecies of giraffes found in East Africa, primarily in the arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia. m Reticulated giraffes are easily recognized by their distinctive coat pattern, which features a network of sharp-edged, polygonal shapes outlined by a network of thin white lines. m They inhabit savannas, open woodlands, and grasslands, where they can find an abundance of acacia trees and other vegetation. m These animals are herbivores and primarily feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of acacia trees. Their long necks and prehensile tongues enable them to reach high branchesenReticulated giraffeland fragmentationovergrazingdegradationbush-meat tradepoachingArticle