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Okapi Reserve

The Okapi Wildlife Reserve is located in the Ituri forest in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is large, occupying about one-fifth of the Ituri forest.   The Reserve is home to numerous species including the Okapi, primates, birds, and elephants. They live amongst the various forests that make up the reserve. Unfortunately, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve is under “attack.” It has been placed on the list World Heritage in Danger.   There are numerous threats to the reserve that are endangering the survival of not only the inhabitants but the forests as well. The reserve is understaffed and short on resources which only serve to further worsen the problem as they are undermanned to deal with all of the threats to the reserve. While there are other reserves that may need funding, the Okapi Reserve is home to approximately 5000 Okapi, of the approximate 30,000 remaining. and needs funding in order to preserve them, as well as other endangered species on the reserve.

Biodiversity

The Okapi Reserve is a beautiful sanctuary for the Okapi. It is fairly large in that its size is 1,372,625ha. It sits amidst 4 types of forests which include both primary and secondary forests as well as mixed and swamp forests. These forest types are all located in and around the reserve creating a sight to behold. There are a couple of endangered cycads, known as Encephalartos marunguensis and E.schmitzii in the area. According to the United Nations Environment Programme website, “…in 9.1ha of mixed forest, 302 species of trees, including understorey trees, and 130 species of lianas were recorded; and in 40ha area of forest, 670 woody plant species were identified…” These lands are home to the mammals, birds and plant life that the reserve attempts to protect.

The forests of the reserve are home to many species. These species include the Okapi, for whom the reserve is named. The Okapi resemble a giraffe with a short neck. These creatures have long ears and a long tongue that is...