Okapis are the only living relative of giraffes and are classified as Endangered. Zoos play a critical role in maintaining captive populations and supporting field conservation.
Captive okapis require specialised management reflecting their solitary, forest-adapted nature. They are shy and sensitive to environmental change and human disturbance — keeper relationships built on positive reinforcement training are essential for routine health monitoring. Their large home range in the wild means zoo enclosures must be supplemented with complex enrichment including browse, foraging challenges, and olfactory enrichment to compensate for reduced movement opportunities. Okapis are susceptible to skin conditions and nutritional deficiencies in captivity, requiring careful dietary management. Zoos with successful okapi programmes contribute significantly to studbook management and conservation funding for the Ituri forest.