2025: The Year Giraffe Conservation Changed Forever 

Science. Conservation. Action. GCF at the Forefront.

2025 marks a historic milestone for giraffe conservation. For the first time, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially recognized four distinct giraffe species: Masai, Northern, Reticulated, and Southern giraffe. [Read more about the 4 giraffe species >]

This breakthrough follows years of research led by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) and our partners, combining cutting-edge genetics, morphology, and distribution studies. Recognizing four species will allow us and all our conservation partners to address their unique challenges more effectively.

Coinciding with this announcement, we released our GCF State of Giraffe 2025 report — the most comprehensive overview ever of giraffe populations across Africa. Updated numbers show a combined total of 140,000 giraffe in Africa - a more accurate picture thanks to improved surveys. However, considering that this total number should actually be divided in four distinct species does not bode well for all of them. While Southern giraffe are thriving, Northern, Masai, and Reticulated giraffe remain threatened and in urgent need of targeted protection. [Read more in the State of Giraffe 2025 report >]

With this new knowledge, conservation strategies should now be tailored to secure the future of each species. GCF continues to lead this effort, ensuring Africa’s tallest mammals stand tall for generations to come.

Our science-led conservation approach is working — but we cannot do it alone. Support giraffe conservation today and help us secure a future for all four species. [Donate now ›]