An Evaluation of the Taxonomic Status of Giraffe (Giraffa spp.): Prepared by the IUCN SSC Giraffe and Okapi Specialist Group Giraffe Taxonomy Task Force

Executive Summary
The IUCN SSC Giraffe and Okapi Specialist Group (GOSG) undertook a comprehensive
taxonomic review of the genus Giraffa to clarify species and subspecies designations
critical to conservation planning and Red List assessments. This revision responds to
substantial advances in the understanding of giraffe diversity over the past decade,
including new genetic, genomic, morphological, and biogeographic evidence.
Historically treated as a single species with nine subspecies, giraffe taxonomy has been
subject to ongoing scientific debate. In response to this need for taxonomic clarity and in
light of a series of recently published studies, the GOSG convened a Taxonomic Task
Force in 2024/2025 to evaluate current evidence using an integrative framework based
on the Traffic Light System — a structured methodology that assesses taxonomic
distinctiveness based on converging lines of evidence. This system considers phenotypic
traits, genetic divergence, and biogeographic patterns to assign each taxon a level of
distinctiveness.
Following an extensive review of published literature, original datasets, and expert
consultation, the GOSG now recognizes four distinct giraffe species and their constituent
subspecies:
1. Northern giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
○ G. c. peralta (West African giraffe)
○ G. c. antiquorum (Kordofan giraffe)
○ G. c. camelopardalis (Nubian giraffe)
2. Reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata)
3. Masai giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi)
○ G. t. tippelskirchi (Masai giraffe sensu stricto)
○ G. t. thornicrofti (Luangwa/Thornicroft’s giraffe)
4. Southern giraffe (Giraffa giraffa)
○ G. g. giraffa (South African giraffe)
○ G. g. angolensis (Angolan giraffe)
This revised taxonomy is rooted in the best available science and aims to provide a
standardized framework for giraffe conservation globally. It will inform future IUCN Red
List assessments, guide national and international conservation policy, and support
improved management of giraffe populations across their range. The GOSG will continue
to review emerging evidence and adapt its taxonomic framework as warranted to ensure
science-based conservation decision-making.