What do giraffes look like?
Giraffes are the world’s tallest land mammals. They have long legs, necks and even tongues - which are incredibly dextrous. Their famous brown and yellow coat patterns vary between habitats – always adapted to optimum camouflage with their surroundings.
The horn-like bones at the top of their head are called ossicones and are covered in skin and fur and are similar to deer’s. Giraffes have the same number of neck bones (vertebra) as humans – although theirs are linked by ball and socket joints enabling them far greater flexibility. Fun fact - the resting position for a giraffe's neck is upright!
Giraffe facts
Giraffes act as the savannah’s alarm system. With their long necks reaching above the treeline, they see danger first. When they start running, the rest of the plain knows to run too. They can run at a pace of ten miles an hour for considerable distances and sprint as fast as 35 miles an hour in a short burst if threatened. Giraffes spend the majority of their time browsing on leaves and digest their food similarly to cows – regurgitating and chewing. They only need to drink once every few days, getting much of their hydration from food.
See giraffes at London Zoo
Tickets
Book your Zoo ticket now to see our giraffes at London Zoo, or upgrade your visit with a Meet the Giraffes experience!
What do giraffes eat?
Giraffes are herbivores and eat leaves, bark and buds. Their long necks and tongues allow them to reach vegetation from high in trees, and they have a particular preference for the acacia tree.
Where do giraffes live?
Giraffes live in the bushy savannah of Africa.
What threats do giraffes face?
Giraffes face threats including poaching, illegal wildlife trade, getting caught in snares and habitat encroachment from surrounding human settlements and unsustainable wood harvesting.
England's first giraffes
The original London Zoo giraffes
Giraffe house history
When giraffes arrived at London Zoo in 1836, they caused a public sensation. Our giraffes were the first to be seen by the public in England, and made Londoners instantly form a connection with the natural world.
How tall are giraffes?
The average height of a male giraffe is around 5.3 metres in height. Females are smaller and are around 4.3 metres tall.
Why do giraffes have dark tongues?
Giraffes have purpley-black coloured tongues, possibly to protect them from sun burn.
How long do giraffes live?
The lifespan of a giraffe is around 25 years.
London Zoo Newsletter
Get the latest updates about exciting animal news from the Zoos, upcoming events, experiences, offers