Giraffe
The giraffe is a large African hoofed mammal in the genus *Giraffa*, best known as the tallest living land animal.
The giraffe is the tallest living land animal, native to Africa. It is a herbivore that browses on leaves, especially from acacia trees.
What it is
Giraffes are large African hoofed mammals in the genus Giraffa. Traditionally classified as one species (Giraffa camelopardalis) with subspecies, some modern treatments recognize four distinct species. They belong to the family Giraffidae, which also includes the okapi.
Key details
Giraffes are distinguished by their very long necks and legs, spotted coats, and ossicones. Males can exceed 5.5 metres in height. They live in African savannahs, grasslands, and open woodlands, and browse on leaves, shoots, fruits, and flowers, with acacia species forming an important part of the diet.
Why it matters
Giraffe populations have declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human pressures. The IUCN lists giraffes as vulnerable overall, though status can vary by species and subspecies. Conservation efforts are important to protect these iconic animals.
In short
- Giraffes are the tallest living land animals.
- They are native to Africa and live in savannahs and woodlands.
- Giraffes are herbivores that browse on leaves, especially from acacia trees.
- The IUCN lists giraffes as vulnerable due to population declines.
Giraffes are familiar to Canadian readers through zoos, wildlife education programs, and conservation fundraising in Canada, where they are a common flagship species for public awareness of African wildlife.
Quick questions
How tall is a giraffe?
Where do giraffes live?
What do giraffes eat?
Sources
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation — https://giraffeconservation.org/facts-about-giraffe/14-fascinating-facts-about-giraffe/Supports: Four-species treatment; population estimate; tallest mammal fact.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/giraffeSupports: Genus, physical description, height, conservation status, and population decline context.
- PBS Nature — https://www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/blog/giraffe-fact-sheet/Supports: Single-species-with-subspecies treatment and lifespan.
- National Geographic — https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/giraffeSupports: Diet, size, lifespan, and vulnerable conservation status.
- Britannica Kids — https://kids.britannica.com/students/article/giraffe/274561Supports: Four-species treatment, herbivory, and general biology.
- Born Free — https://www.bornfree.org.uk/news/16-fun-and-fascinating-giraffe-facts/Supports: Tallest mammal fact and general natural history.