Think You Know Giraffes?  10 Facts That Will Change Your Mind

15th March, 2024

CHIRANJIT MITRA

A giraffe's spots are like fingerprints – no two are exactly alike!

Spot the Difference

Super-Sized Hearts

To pump blood up that neck, giraffes have HUGE hearts. They can weigh up to 25 pounds!

Built-in Sunscreen

That long, dark tongue isn't just for eating. Its color acts as a natural sunscreen to prevent sunburn!

Speedy Sleepers

Giraffes only need 5-30 minutes of sleep a day, taken in short bursts. They have to stay alert for predators!

Neck Wrestlers

Male giraffes compete for mates by battling with their necks. These clashes can look brutal! 

Horned and Fabulous

Those aren't antlers! A giraffe's horns are called ossicones and are covered in skin and fur.

Babies on the Run

Talk about a quick start! Baby giraffes can stand, walk, and even run shortly after birth.

It's All in the Neck

Despite their long necks, giraffes have the same number of neck bones (seven) as ours – theirs are huge!

Camel Competition

Giraffes can survive for weeks without drinking water. They get most of their moisture from the plants they eat.

Knockout Kicks

Don't mess with a giraffe! Their powerful kicks can seriously injure or even kill a lion.