Giraffes are facing mounting threats that are decimating this gentle giant's populations. Poachers are targeting the species for its body parts and skin – and a recent AWF study found that giraffe meat is being passed off as beef or goat in butcher shops. This heartbreaking development worsens the effects of habitat loss and human encroachment, which have been wreaking havoc on giraffe populations for decades.

The situation is dire. Continental populations have plummeted by 40% in the last 30 years and two giraffe subspecies were recently upgraded to critically endangered for the first time.

Poachers are killing giraffes for their parts and products. Their meat is consumed and their skin is sold as expensive pillow covers, boots, bible covers, and other trinkets. According to the Humane Society of the United States, 40,000 giraffe products were imported into the U.S. between 2006 and 2015.

There is still hope, but only if we act fast with your help. African Wildlife Foundation is working with the Kenya Wildlife Service to execute the unprecedented Recovery and Action Plan to save the giraffe. We're looking for 50,000 wildlife advocates to sign a pledge in support of saving this magnificent species.

Add your name now.