It may look like both a giraffe and a zebra, have white-and-black striped legs and weigh over 200 kg, but this strange-looking creature remained undetected for a very long time. Meet the okapi. | Brut nature

Why are okapi so cool? They look like a mix between a zebra and a giraffe — but they’re actually the giraffe’s only living relative! With their striped legs and long purple tongues, okapi are perfectly adapted for life in the dense forests of the Congo. Sadly, these incredible animals are endangered due to habitat loss and poaching. Protecting them means supporting global conservation efforts that preserve their rainforest habitat and help stop illegal hunting. Let’s show the okapi some love! Vi

Toby is the perfect okapi of Subira With their velvet fur, long tongues and striped backends, okapis may look like they're made from leftover parts, but each of their characteristics plays a part in their wild habitats. The stripes camouflage them from predators, their oily fur keeps them dry in the rainforest and their long tongues help them reach the best leaves. | San Diego Zoo

Vroom vroom 🏎️ The new okapi calf runs on 100% all-natural excitement. This striped booty cutie was walking 30 minutes after he was born and is brushing up his zoomie skills while mom keeps a watchful eye nearby. Little okapis take time to get coordinated which is why they kick up their heels and toss their heads as they explore their surroundings. #hoppyokapi #zoomies #babyokapi #sdzsafaripark | San Diego Zoo Safari Park