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Top 10 Animals After Dark: The Giraffe
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#7 - When Giraffes Get Going

By Jessika Toothman

During the day, giraffes have excellent eyesight and a great view of their surroundings. When darkness falls, they lose some of this edge since their night vision isn't top notch. Danger can start to close in on every side; lions, leopards and crocodiles are among the many species looking to feast on a side of giraffe — especially the calves.

During the night, herds of giraffes will often post a spindly-legged sentry to act as lookout; however, instead of their vision they rely more strongly on their hearing — as well as their ability to bolt at speeds of 30 to 40 miles per hour if a situation goes sour.

Giraffes also have a powerful kick that can be used to defend against an attack if they have no other option. They stay alert for record amounts of time; giraffes need less than two hours of sleep a day, and that usually isn't even consecutive.

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