Okapis are secretive forest giraffids found only in the Congo Basin. Their welfare in zoos and the dire conservation situation of wild populations make them a compelling case for the role of modern zoos.
Okapi welfare in zoos centers on meeting the needs of a naturally shy, solitary forest animal unaccustomed to open spaces or frequent human interaction. Enclosures must provide visual cover, browsing opportunities with varied foliage, and calm, predictable management routines. Okapis are sensitive to temperature and humidity and require indoor climate control in most zoo climates. Their social nature differs from many other zoo animals — brief pairings for breeding require careful management to avoid stress from incompatible individuals. Zoo populations are a critical insurance against extinction for a species under severe pressure from armed conflict and habitat destruction in its only natural habitat.