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Giraffe

Giraffa camelopardalis

Tallest on Earth: Giraffes are the tallest land mammals in the world, with heads that may tower 20 feet above ground. Their great height allows them to reach the leaves of the spiny trees that are their staple. They pluck the buds, fruit and leaves of these trees with prehensile upper lips and long tongues that can be extended up to 18 inches. They also eat grasses, seeds, grains and other low-lying vegetation.

Shy and Hunted: Their herds of 20 to 40 individuals are led by a dominant, usually old, bull. Shy animals, they possess keen senses of smell and hearing, which help them stay clear of predators. Once widespread and abundant, giraffes have been heavily hunted for their flesh and hides.

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MORE GIRAFFE

FACTS: More Giraffe Facts

FACTS: Even More Giraffe Facts

DID YOU KNOW?

One Big Baby: Baby giraffes are about 6 feet tall at birth. They can run around only a few hours after birth, but spend most of their first two weeks life lying down, guarded by their mother.

On the Spot: Like fingerprints, no two giraffes' spots are exactly the same. The nine different giraffe subspecies have different spot patterns, from large to small and uniform to irregular.

How Stuff Works

How is a Giraffe's Neck So Flexible?
The giraffe's neck has only seven bones, or vertebrae. How is it so flexible? Get the answer from our partners at HowStuffWorks.com.