Did you know that the Okapi is the only animal in the world that can clean its ears with its 50cm (20 inches) tongue? This unique and fascinating creature, which is native to the rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is known for its long, prehensile tongue that it uses to groom itself and reach difficult-to-reach areas like its ears.

The Okapi is often referred to as the "forest giraffe" due to its resemblance to both giraffes and zebras. It has a dark brown coat with white stripes on its legs and hindquarters, making it blend in perfectly with its forest environment. Despite its large size and powerful tongue, the Okapi is a shy and reclusive animal that prefers to stay hidden in the dense vegetation of the rainforest.

In addition to using its tongue for grooming, the Okapi also uses it to strip leaves off branches and grab food, such as fruits and buds, from high tree branches. Its long tongue allows it to reach food that other animals can't access, giving it a unique advantage in the competitive rainforest environment.

If you're interested in learning more about the fascinating Okapi and its incredible tongue-cleaning abilities, check out the World Wildlife Fund's page on this amazing creature. You'll find information on its habitat, diet, behavior, and conservation status, as well as ways you can help protect this endangered species.

Overall, the Okapi is a truly remarkable animal with some incredible adaptations that help it thrive in its rainforest habitat. Its 50cm tongue is just one of the many unique features that make this creature so special and deserving of our protection and admiration.

So next time you're cleaning your ears, think of the Okapi and marvel at the wonders of the natural world!

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