Giraffe

Giraffa camelopardalis

The giraffe is the world’s tallest land animal! Giraffes can grow 19 feet tall and weigh up to 3,000 pounds. Their necks can extend up to 6 feet long. Compared to the neck of a human, there is a surprising similarity. Both humans and giraffes have the same number of vertebra – seven! With its towering size and powerful legs, the giraffe has a dominating appearance, but they are very peaceful animals until they are threatened.

Fun Facts

• Giraffes are the tallest mammals on Earth. Their legs alone are taller than many humans at about 6 feet tall.
• On the African savanna, the giraffe can reach higher in the trees than an outstretched elephant trunk. Using a special joint at the base of the skull, they can also extend their neck vertically.
• Giraffe feeding habits help to maintain the open woodlands inhabited by other animals on the savanna.
• They can run as fast as 35 miles an hour over short distances, or cruise at 10 mph over longer distances.
• Giraffes spend most of their lives standing up; they even sleep and give birth standing up.