The beautiful and endangered okapi is shy, secretive, and elusive. They are found in the dense tropical rainforests of central Africa, and their reddish coat and zebra-like stripes help them disappear quickly in dense foliage. They are the closest living relative to giraffes. The L.A. Zoo is home to two okapi named Jackson and Opey. Jackson is curious and enjoys snacking on butternut squash. Opey is known for her gentle demeanor, and has had two calves over the years at the Zoo. While discovered

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

Baby okapi explores new enclosure in Texas zoo