Okapids obtain much of their water from plants. Leaves and fruits provide sufficient hydration. This reduces the need to visit rivers. Open water areas are dangerous. Avoiding them lowers predator exposure. Hydration through diet is safer.
This behavior reduces risk while meeting basic needs. Safety influences feeding patterns.
It shows how diet can replace behavior. Eating becomes drinking.
Some okapids go days without drinking liquid water.
National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com)