Discovering the Okapi - Western Science, Indigenous Knowledge, and the Search for a Rainforest Enigma

Explore the fascinating history of the okapi's discovery and scientific classification in this lecture by Dr. Simon Pooley from Birkbeck University of London. Delve into the story of how Sir Harry Johnston brought this rainforest giraffid to Western scientific attention in 1900 in what is now northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, examining the contributions of both Western scientists and local indigenous peoples to our understanding of this remarkable species. Learn about the complex process of describing, classifying, and exhibiting this sensational new species, and discover how the okapi has been represented to both scientific communities and the general public over more than a century. Investigate the okapi's role as diplomatic currency, the history of exporting these animals, and their experiences in captivity, while gaining insights into what scientific research has revealed about their biology and behavior. Understand the current conservation challenges facing okapi populations and the ongoing efforts to protect this enigmatic rainforest species. Based on Dr. Pooley's book "Discovering the Okapi: Western Science, indigenous knowledge, and the search for a rainforest enigma," this presentation offers a comprehensive examination of how scientific discovery intersects with colonial history, indigenous knowledge systems, and modern conservation science.