Editor's Den

Raghul Patteri

Editor

We just can’t get enough of the Giraffe. We covered some interesting aspects of Giraffe conservation in the 6th edition of PT Aware, primarily the influence of the latest DNA research. That carefully researched volume was an eye-opener on how an animal that seemed to be fairing well in Africa,  might actually be facing grave threats.

In this volume, we look at Giraffes from a different perspective. Over a research trip to the Masai mara guided by Dr. Peter Hudson, Amanda Monahan, and friends observed the social behaviour of Giraffes. For years researchers believed that Giraffes were incapable of any significant social attachments. Latest observations suggest otherwise and point to the Giraffes being socially evolved being capable of complex social behaviour.

The article also explores the curious symbiotic (or parasitic) behaviour between the Giraffe and the oxpecker bird.

Though our knowledge about these charismatic animals is increasing, it is concerning how less indeed we still know about them. This article is an eye-opener to the need for further research. We share the earth with different marvelous beings and the importance of each one of them cannot be discounted.

Our next edition will chronicle the spotted Hyena. So please be ready to upload your best Hyena images.

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