 Giraffe Animal of Africa living in the open country is south of the Sahara. The tallest of animals, a male maybe 18 ft. from the hoof to the Crown.
The long neck has only the usual seven vertebrae. The short horns are covered with skin and hair. The giraffes are protectively camouflaged , with large sandy to chestnut angular spots closely spaced on the lighter background. They feed mainly on the leaves of the acacia and mimosa, using their extendable tongues and mobile lips to secure the food. They can do without water for long intervals. The giraffe can outrun most of its enemies and is usually pursued on horseback. Hunted for its hide and flesh, it has been reduced in numbers and in some areas exterminated. It is now protected. | 
