We’ve been spending quite a bit of time in the Park these past few weeks getting involved with giraffe research. Fifteen giraffe were translocated from Murchison Falls NP to Lake Mburo in July 2015. A sub-species of Northern giraffe, these Nubian giraffe are doing really well in their new home.
The main aim of the research is to learn where they are moving in the Park, what they’re eating and learn a bit about their relationships with one another. The last time we watched them one male had an injury. His front left leg was swollen and he was limping a lot. It was really interesting to watch the other 3 males as they stayed near him, often touching him with their noses. Were they concerned for him as a friend or interested to find out just how weak he was as a rival?
Apart for the current injury the giraffes have been doing really well and are often spotted by visitors to the Park. With such a small population it’s possible to know each individual and follow them closely. They are fascinating to watch, a very curious animal, often coming closer to get a better look at you.
While we’re all eagerly awaiting the arrival of a calf (seeing as their gestation period is 15 months it’s no surprise one hasn’t been delivered just yet!) it’s been great to spot and observe these great giants and we’re now well versed at identifying the different individuals. It will be interesting to see how this project develops over the coming years.
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