Giraffa camelopardalis

Giraffes are social animals, living in loose, open herds without a strict hierarchy. They are known for their long necks, which they use to browse leaves and twigs from the tops of trees, primarily acacia species. Their height also provides a vantage point to spot predators.

Females give birth standing up, dropping their calves from a height of about 2 meters. Calves can stand and run within a few hours of birth. Giraffes have a gestation period of around 15 months, and mothers are protective, keeping their calves close for the first few weeks.

The giraffe is the tallest land animal, with adult males reaching up to 5.5 meters in height. They have a distinctive coat pattern of brown patches separated by lighter lines, which is unique to each individual. Their long legs and necks are adaptations to their browsing lifestyle.

Giraffes have fascinated humans for millennia, depicted in ancient Egyptian art and later described by Roman and Greek scholars who marveled at their unique appearance. They were often given as exotic gifts to European monarchs.

Giraffes are classified as Vulnerable to extinction by the IUCN Red List, with some subspecies being more endangered. Their populations are declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and civil unrest in their native habitats. Conservation efforts include habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and education programs to ensure their survival.