What do giraffes look like?
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The giraffe is a tall mammal with long legs, a spotted coat and an elongated neck. This mammal is the tallest in the world, with male giraffes growing as tall as 18 feet.
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Different subspecies of giraffes have different types of spots. The spots of the Masai giraffe look similar to oak leaves. Some giraffes have square spots, making them look like they are wearing nets. These spots may act as camouflage for wild giraffes.
Males and females have two ossicones, or hair-covered horns, on their heads. Male giraffes butt these horns together during play. A giraffe's neck is approximately 6 feet long and weighs as much as 600 pounds. Each of a giraffe's legs is also 6 feet long. The long legs and neck make it easier for giraffes to reach the leaves on tall trees.
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Q:
Are giraffes endangered?
A: The general giraffe population throughout Africa is starting to decline, with the West African giraffe having the lowest population at less than 300. With ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How do giraffes protect themselves?
A: Giraffes have several ways of protecting themselves, including moving in large groups that make it hard to pick out just one giraffe from the rest of the g... 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: -
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Why do giraffes have black tongues?
A: Although it has not been conclusively proven, it is believed that the giraffe has a black tongue in order to protect the tongue from the sun because it spe... Full Answer >Filed Under:
