Not that I’m aware of. In this case, he was just a melanistic (excess levels of melanin) giraffe and not, as some have alleged, an “endangered” sub-species of giraffe. Because of his melanism, he was noteworthy, easy to identify and I’m sure every PH and every ranger was aware of him.
Melanism occurs in almost every species and is usually rare. It’s exceptionally rare in whitetail deer, but quite common among squirrels.
I read it in the article but as you know journaLists aren’t exactly strong on hunting knowledge or quarry