Q:
What Color Are Giraffes?
A:
Quick Answer
Giraffe coat colors vary from light tan to nearly black. As of 2014, there are nine definite subspecies of the giraffe that differ in habitat and lifestyle, which accounts for their varying colorations. The markings on one subspecies of giraffe, the Thornicroft, may darken with age.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Christian Beirle González
Moment
Getty Images
Full Answer
All subspecies of the giraffe have brown splotches over a lighter tan coat. Some subspecies have defined patterns, such as oak leaf shapes on the Masai giraffe or very small, thin beige lines between splotches on the reticulated giraffe. Giraffes are the tallest mammals in the world, reaching 14 to 18 feet in height. Giraffe babies are born 6 feet tall and grow up to 1 inch per day.
Learn more about GiraffesRelated Questions
-
Q:
Why Are Giraffes so Tall?
A: A giraffe's height is an evolutionary adaptation that allows it to feed from tall trees and other sources of vegetation. The long tongue of the giraffe, wh... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why Do Giraffes Sleep so Little?
A: Giraffes get very little sleep because they must remain alert for attacks from predators, according to Live Science. They usually sleep for five minutes at... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Why Are Giraffes Endangered?
A: The giraffe, or giraffa camelopardalis, is endangered due to habitat loss, the breaking up of habitat areas, the lack of suitability in existing habitats, ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Do Giraffes Have Teeth?
A: Giraffes have 32 powerful teeth that they use to grind and chew up food, such as leaves and twigs. However, their teeth are positioned at the back of their... Full Answer >Filed Under:
