#4 - Did you know that …
Giraffes are found in the dry savannas of Africa, where they roam among the open plains and woodlands.
These gentle giants are the world’s tallest living land animals. An adult male can grow to around 18 feet – that’s taller than three adult humans!
A giraffe’s height is helpful for keeping a look out for predators, such as lions and hyenas. Their excellent eyesight allows them to spot hungry beasts from far away.
Giraffes are herbivores so they only eat plants. Their favorite food is the acacia tree, and they use their long necks to reach the leaves and buds in the treetops. Their long tongues (which grow to 21 inches!) also help them pull down leaves growing way up high.
Giraffes spend most of their time eating, and can eat up to 99 pounds of leaves and twigs a day!
Giraffes don’t drink much water. They get most of their water from their leafy meals, and only need to drink once every few days.
Giraffes are very social animals and roam around in groups. These groups, called towers, typically have around 15 members.
Female giraffes give birth standing up. Newborns come into the world with a 5 foot drop to the ground! But these infants are quick to get on their feet – within 30 minutes they are standing, and only hours later they”re able to run with their mothers.
In the wild these beautiful creatures live for around 25 years. In captivity they live longer, and have been known to reach 40 years old.
