By Sahasra Potla
Giraffes are the tallest mammals in the world. The average giraffe is 14 to 19 feet tall. They’re are able to run as fast as 35 miles an hour in short distances with the help of their long legs. These animals live for around 25 years in the wild. They live longer in captivity and have been known to live to be 40 years old.
Habitat
Savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands are all possible habitats for giraffes. Giraffes prefer areas where there are a lot of acacia trees. Giraffes live in groups of up to 20 that are called towers. The majority of giraffes are found in East Africa, as well as Angola and Zambia in southwestern Africa. Giraffes were also common in West Africa, south of the Sahara, until the middle of the twentieth century. However, the population has decreased a lot.
Diet
Giraffes are herbivores, meaning they only consume plants. The acacia tree is their favorite food, and they reach the leaves and buds in the treetops with their long necks. Their long tongues also help them pull down the leaves growing up high. In the wild giraffes can eat up to 66 kilograms of food every day.
Fun facts
Giraffes spend most of their lives standing up, they even sleep standing up. Giraffes only need to drink once every few days. Most of their water comes from all the plants they eat. Also, there are only 4 different species of giraffes. giraffe tongues are dark blueish in color, which is thought to be a form of sun protection.
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