Zoo Animals

The giraffe, the tallest land animal on Earth, is a marvel of nature. Towering up to 18 feet high, these gentle herbivores gracefully navigate the African savanna, using their long necks to reach treetops for leaves, fruits, and flowers. Their favorite meal, acacia leaves, comes with a challenge—sharp thorns. Yet, giraffes skillfully pluck the leaves with their prehensile tongues, which are nearly 18 inches long and tough enough to handle the thorns.

Despite their seemingly peaceful existence, giraffes play a critical role in their ecosystems. By pruning trees, they stimulate new growth, creating habitats for other animals. However, giraffe populations face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Conservation programs aim to protect these gentle giants and raise awareness of their importance to biodiversity.