Photo by Pete McBride pedromcbride | Giraffe markings are known for their use as camouflage, but they also help the animals cool down in the African heat. Though their numbers have increased in recent years due to conservation efforts, giraffes are still poached for their meat, pelts, and tails, and their populations have suffered as a result. The wild Masai giraffe population is estimated to have declined by half in the past 30 years. This Earth Month and beyond, I hope we can support these often curious, spotted friends that have the same number of vertebrae in their necks as humans. Organizations like giraffe_conservation are a good place to start. An orphan giraffe r.e.s.c.u.e. visits with a caretaker. For more wildlife, follow pedromcbride. #giraffe #conservation #SeeingSilence #Africa #nature #wildlife #petemcbride