Q:
What Is the Only Animal Born With Horns?
A:
Quick Answer
The only animal born with horns is the giraffe. Both male and female giraffes are born with two horn-like structures atop their heads called ossicones.
Continue Reading
Credit:
Dani-Rae Law
Flickr
CC-BY-2.0
Full Answer
Ossicones consist of hard cartilage. When giraffes are born, the ossicones are covered in skin and a fine layer of hair. These horns are fused to the parietal area of the skull. The male ossicones are typically rounded at the top and bald, while the female ossicones are usually thinner and contain a tuft of hair on the ends.
The function of these horns is not entirely understood, but scientists believe they aid in temperature regulation. The horns are also used by the males during combat over breeding rights with female giraffes.
Learn more about ZoologySources:
Related Questions
-
Q:
What Animals Are Native to Madagascar?
A: Some animals that are native to Madagascar include the fossa, dancing sifaka and giraffe weevil. Madagascar is also home to many types of lemurs, including... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Are the Names of Some African Animals?
A: Some of the many African animals are the hippopotamus, lion, bongo and kudu antelope, vervet monkey, zebra, giraffe, elephant, white rhinoceros, hedgehog, ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is the Scientific Name for a Giraffe?
A: The scientific name for the giraffe is Giraffa camelopardalis. The large mammal is native to Africa and is found mostly south of the Sahara desert. Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What Is the Dirtiest Animal?
A: Maxim magazine places the hyena at the top of its list of the filthiest beasts in the animal kingdom. It cites the hyena's reputation as a grave robber, it... Full Answer >Filed Under:
