GIRAFFE, the tallest of all mammals, reaching i8ft. Tin. in height, the type of the family Giraffidae. The classic term "camelopard" has fallen into disuse.
Skin-covered horns are present in both sexes, and there is often an unpaired one in advance of the pair on the forehead. Among other characteristics may be noticed the length of the neck and limbs, the absence of lateral toes, and the long tufted tail. The tongue is remarkable for its length (up to 18in.) and elasticity. It is covered with numerous large papillae, and forms an organ for the prehension of food. Giraffes inhabit open country and browse on tall trees. To drink or graze they are obliged to straddle the fore-legs apart ; but they are capable of going long without water. They can gallop at over 3o miles an hour. When standing among mimosas they are difficult of detection. They are almost entirely voiceless. One fawn is produced at a birth. Formerly giraffes were found in large herds, but persecution led to their extermination in many districts. though in Tertiary times spread over southern Europe and India, giraffes are now confined to Africa south of the Sahara.
Apart from the Somali giraffe (Gira ff a reticulata), characterized by its deep liver red colour, there are numerous local sub species of the ordinary giraffe (G. camelo pardalis) .