How Giraffe Skin Disease Affects Movement in Masai Giraffes

Emerging skin diseases in wildlife can have serious consequences—sometimes causing mass mortality, as seen with white-nose syndrome in bats and chytrid fungus in amphibians, or leading to lasting impairments in those that survive. In giraffes, various skin diseases have been documented over the past 30 years. While research suggests that giraffe skin disease (GSD) may not directly increase mortality, the lesions are often suspected to hinder movement.

A new publication co-authored by our Southern Africa Program Director, Dr. Corinne Kendall, examined how the severity of GSD lesions on the forelimbs affects locomotion in Masai giraffes in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania. The findings revealed that giraffes with moderate to severe lesions moved significantly slower than individuals with no lesions. This reduced speed was linked to longer stride duration and increased reliance on multiple limbs for support during each stride. 

Such impaired mobility may alter movement patterns, reducing daily travel distances or home range sizes, and could heighten vulnerability to both predation and poaching. The researchers recommend further studies to evaluate whether GSD also affects running gait, overall movement ecology, and survival risks. They also highlight the importance of investigating the sublethal impacts of emerging skin diseases in wildlife more broadly, particularly as climate change is likely to exacerbate their prevalence. Understanding these long-term effects will be essential for effective conservation.

Curious why one of our biologists is publishing about giraffes? Dr. Corinne Kendall, who joined our team earlier this year, brought to The Peregrine Fund a wealth of experience working with Tanzania’s incredible wildlife. While she now leads our Southern Africa Program, she continues her research with other species and partners across the region. Collaboration is at the heart of conservation. Our biologists frequently work with fellow researchers and organizations, sharing knowledge and expertise to tackle the complex challenges facing wildlife today. By building these networks, we strengthen not only our own programs but the broader field of wildlife conservation.