Giraffes are distinctive, large mammals

They are found in Africa, renowned for their height - up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). They possess a long neck, a spotted coat, and a prehensile tongue used for grasping leaves and branches. As herbivores, they feed on a diet of leaves, flowers, and fruits. Giraffes live in social herds, but male territorial behavior can occur during mating season.

Due to habitat loss and poaching, giraffes are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN. They can run at speeds of up to 35 mph in short bursts, but their typical movement is a trot of 10-25 mph.

Giraffes are herbivores and mainly eat leaves, flowers, and fruits from trees and shrubs. They prefer acacia, mimosa, and wild apricot trees, but will also eat from other plant species depending on their availability and the season. They have a long neck and specialized tongue that helps them reach and consume leaves from tall trees that other herbivores can't reach.

A family of Giraffes at a waterhole. Sculptor unknown - carved on green Verdite.

Test your Knowledge Do Giraffes have more neck vertebrae than horses? What about skunks?