Okapi pregnancies last around 14 to 15 months. This is long for their body size. Extended gestation allows calves to be well-developed at birth. Newborns can stand quickly. Strong early development is essential for survival. Mothers invest heavily in each calf.
This explains why okapi populations grow slowly. Low birth rates increase extinction risk.
It highlights how reproduction strategy affects conservation. Slow species need extra protection.
Okapi calves are born weighing over 30 pounds.
Smithsonian National Zoo (si.edu)