The giraffe is a fascinating animal known for its towering height and distinct long neck. It is the tallest land mammal, with adult males reaching heights of up to 18 feet. The giraffe’s long neck, which can reach lengths of 6 to 7 feet, allows it to browse on leaves and shoots from trees that other herbivores cannot reach. Their long, dark-colored tongues, measuring up to 18 inches in length, help them grab and strip leaves from branches. In addition to their necks, giraffes have long, slender legs and a spotted coat pattern that varies between individuals and subspecies. They live in savannas and open woodlands across sub-Saharan Africa, with their numbers decreasing due to habitat loss and poaching. Despite their incredible size, giraffes are surprisingly gentle animals and generally peaceful, using their height and powerful hooves only when necessary for self-defense.