Giraffes are the tallest land mammals in the world, with heads that may tower twenty feet (6 m) above ground. Their great height allows them to reach the leaves of the spiny trees that are their staple.
They pluck the buds, fruit, and leaves of these trees with prehensile upper lips and long tongues that can be extended up to eighteen inches (45 cm).
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They also eat grasses, seeds, grains, and other low-lying vegetation.
Their herds of twenty to forty individuals are led by a dominant, usually old, bull.
Shy animals, they possess keen senses of smell and hearing, which help them stay clear of predators.
Once widespread and abundant, giraffes have been heavily hunted for their flesh and their hide.
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