The tallest living terrestrial animal on Earth, native to the Horn of Africa, and recognized by its large, clearly defined polygonal coat patches outlined in white. Their long necks allow them to browse treetops that no other land animal can reach.
Weight: 1800 - 3000 lbs
Size: 14 - 18 feet tall
Lifespan: Approx. 25 Years
Location: African Savanna
Giraffes have horn-like bumps on their heads called ossicones! Males use them to fight each other in a unique sparring style called “necking,” where they swing their long necks like a wrecking ball.
Their tongues are basically built-in grabbers. Giraffes have prehensile tongues that can reach out and wrap around leaves to pluck them right off the branch.
Giraffes and humans actually have the same number of neck bones! The difference? Each giraffe vertebra is over 10 inches long, while ours are closer to one inch.
IUCN is the International Union for Conservation of Nature. They collectively work to determine what animals are endangered, at risk, or stable. Learn More about IUCN here.
IUCN Red Status: Endangered
IUCN Green Status: Not Evaluated
