Okapids prefer shaded forest areas. Direct sunlight can cause overheating. Their dark coat absorbs heat quickly. Shade helps regulate body temperature. This behavior shapes their daily movement. They follow canopy cover closely.
This highlights behavioral thermoregulation. Animals manage heat without sweat.
It shows habitat structure directly affects survival. Forest loss increases heat stress.
Okapids may change routes to avoid sunlit clearings.
Smithsonian National Zoo (si.edu)