The giraffe is still young and arrived in the country several years ago to one of the most coffee-growing areas.
News Colombia.
In the Ukumarí Biopark of Pereira, resides ‘Otún‘, a male giraffe that measures approximately 4 and a half meters and is around 7 years old. This majestic animal is the only giraffe in the country and its presence highlights the importance of conserving species that are in danger of extinction. Giraffes are completely herbivorous and face serious threats due to habitat destruction and poaching in Africa.
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‘Otún’ arrived at the Ukumarí Biopark in 2018, and was accompanied by a female giraffe called ‘Pearl‘. Unfortunately, ‘Perla’ died years later due to a digestive illness, leaving ‘Otún’ as the only representative of his species in Colombia. The story of their arrival is interesting; comes from the Puebla Zoo, Mexico. As explained to Paula’s Vlog on his YouTube channel, the migration of animals like Otún is crucial to maintaining genetic diversity.
«When we talk about conservation and preservation, we also talk about keeping important aspects, let’s say, regulated; among them is, for example, reproduction. When we talk about reproduction, animals can also reproduce by inbreeding, and if an animal stays in the same place where it was born, it may mate with its relative, and when this happens, the genetics are altered. So, when animals are born in their natural habitat, they migrate to other territories where there is other genetics with which they can interbreed, but that must also happen when they are under human care,” they explained.
@traveltourvalle OTUN is the only giraffe in Colombia 🇨🇴 and is in @Bioparque UKUMARÍ #Giraffe #BioPark #Pereira #Trips #TravelTour ♬ Mala – Lost Sync & Mad Diablo
‘Otún’ suffers from a condition that makes his spots not visible
Despite being an ambassador of his species, ‘Otún’ suffers from alopeciaa condition that causes excessive hair loss in certain areas of your body. As a result, its characteristic spots are not visible, making it even more unique. However, the Ukumarí Biopark ensures that the giraffe receives the appropriate treatment to manage its condition, providing it with the necessary veterinary care.
The Ukumarí Biopark is not only a refuge for ‘Otún’, but also for other animals, a place where visitors can learn about the importance of species conservation. With educational activities, the biopark becomes a reference point for those who want to learn more about wildlife and preservation initiatives.
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