Okapids can stand motionless for extended periods. This behavior helps them blend into the forest. Stillness makes detection harder. It also conserves energy. Remaining calm reduces panic responses. This patience is a defensive tactic.
This shows how inactivity can be protective. Not all survival strategies involve action.
It challenges the idea that animals must flee to survive. Sometimes stillness wins.
Okapids may remain still for over 30 minutes.
Smithsonian National Zoo (si.edu)