Giraffes are the tallest land animals in the world. Their height can reach 5.5-6 meters, of which the neck accounts for about 1.8-2 meters. The distribution range of giraffes is mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, living in dry grasslands, savannas, and bushes.
Giraffes have a very special body structure, with long legs and a neck with a row of protruding bones covered in skin, known as "spinous processes," which act as support and protection.
They also have very long tongues, which can extend up to 30 centimeters, helping them to reach high food. As herbivores, they feed mainly on leaves, twigs, and buds, usually in the early morning and evening, and rest or walk at other times.
Their reproductive cycle is 15 months, with one cub being born each time, which is about 1.8 meters tall at birth and can walk. Giraffes typically live for around 25 years.
The current status of giraffes is worrying, their numbers are gradually decreasing. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), giraffes are listed as "Vulnerable" due to the:
Habitat Destruction: Due to human activities, including land reclamation, logging, urbanization, etc., the giraffe's habitat is gradually decreasing.
Targeted hunting: In some countries, giraffes are at risk of being illegally hunted for their meat, leather, and bones.
Climate change: Climate change leads to drought and grassland degradation, which makes food more scarce for giraffes, affecting their survival and reproduction.
Diseases: Giraffes are also susceptible to diseases, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Giraffes are mainly distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, so the countries on the African continent are the best places to see giraffes. Here are a few places to see giraffes:
Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: This is one of the most famous game reserves in Africa, where you can see a large number of wild animals, including giraffes.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Located in the northern part of Tanzania, this national park is considered one of the most beautiful national parks in Africa and is a great place to see giraffes.
Kruger National Park, South Africa: Kruger National Park is one of the largest wildlife reserves in Africa. It is located on the border between South Africa and Lesotho. It is also a good place to watch giraffes.
Sassevi Valley National Park, Namibia: Located in southern Namibia, this national park is considered one of the largest nature reserves in Africa and is also an ideal place to see giraffes and other wildlife.
In addition to the above countries and regions, Lake Nakuru in Kenya, Talanga National Park in Tanzania, Chapo Island in Chad, Bamako in Mali, and other places are also good places to watch giraffes.