The okapi, often called the “forest giraffe,” is one of the most unique and mysterious mammals in the world. Native to the dense rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the okapi has fascinated scientists and explorers ever since it was first described by Western science in the early 20th century. Despite its zebra-like stripes on the legs, the okapi is not related to zebras at all, but is in fact the closest living relative of the giraffe. The okapi’s body is a deep, velvety brown, wit