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.
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.
