Giraffe

The giraffe is a large African hoofed mammal in the genus *Giraffa*, best known as the tallest living land animal.

The giraffe is a large African hoofed mammal in the genus *Giraffa*, best known as the tallest living land animal. It is a browser that feeds mainly on leaves, flowers, and fruits from trees and shrubs, especially acacias. Modern sources differ on whether the group is treated as one species with subspecies or four species, but all are native to Africa and face conservation pressures.

Taxonomy and classification

Giraffes have traditionally been classified as one species, *Giraffa camelopardalis*, with multiple subspecies. More recent treatments recognize four species: northern, southern, Masai, and reticulated giraffes.

Physical characteristics

Giraffes are distinguished by their very long necks and legs, spotted coats, and ossicones. Males can exceed 5.5 metres in height, making giraffes the tallest land animals.

Habitat and diet

Giraffes live in African savannahs, grasslands, and open woodlands. They browse on leaves, shoots, fruits, and flowers, with acacia species forming an important part of the diet.

Conservation

Giraffe populations have declined due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human pressures. Conservation assessments now classify giraffes overall as vulnerable, though status can vary by species and subspecies.