Occurrence of Dystocia among Free-Ranging Giraffes (Giraffa spp.) in Kenya

Dystocia, a complication that occurs at parturition, either due to fetal or maternal factors, is uncommon in wild ungulate species because of natural selection against predisposed individuals. Among giraffes, reports of dystocia are rare in free-ranging populations across Africa. This study reviewed occurrence and type of dystocia, and outcome of obstetrical interventions, in giraffes in Kenya during 1991-2023 and considered possible risk factors. Only one case of dystocia in a semicaptive and one case in a captive northern (Rothschild's) Rothschild's giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) had been reported in Kenya before 2012. Seventeen cases were recorded in free-ranging giraffes during 2012-23 in 10 different protected areas with variable range and forage restrictions, associated with fenced, partially fenced, or unfenced management systems. In the latter period, three giraffe species found in Kenya were all affected, with nine cases in Masai giraffes (Giraffa tippelskirchi) and four cases each in reticulated giraffes (Giraffa reticulata) and Rothschild's giraffes. Cases were attributed to fetal factors, including malposition that refers to the position of the fetus or to malpresentation that refers to parts of the body presenting on the pelvis. Potential maternal factors were not evaluated in any individuals. Based on dam survival, 75% success rate relieving dystocia, through obstetrical manipulation, was recorded, but none of the calves survived. We postulate that dystocia might be increasing in Kenya, although increased reports may simply reflect improving capacities to observe and intervene.