The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has officially downgraded the classification of the Okapia Johnstoni (Okapi) from Threatened Vulnerable to Endangered. This is just two steps from extinction level calssifications. Over the past 25 years, indigenous populations of the Okapi in its native land in the Congo of African has been reduced from approximately 40,000 to less then 10,000 adults.

Deforestation and poaching are the two largest reason for their demise.

This is by far my favorite species in the entire Animal kingdom, I would truely hate to see them become extinct. I donate annually to the OCP (Okapi Conservation Project) and would welcome any of my furry friends to do the same. You can find the official donation page here: http://www.okapiconservation.org/donations/