Standing as the tallest land animal, the giraffe looks like no other. It's long neck, legs and telltale patterned coat are it's distinguishing features. Interestingly enough, there are nine subspecies of giraffes and each have different coat patterns. Pictured above are the reticulated giraffes. Their long necks allow them to feed on the leaves of acacia trees where other animals cannot reach. Additionally, the giraffe's neck is a formidable 500 pound weapon. Males will fight for dominance in a battle of "necking". The prize... mating rights!
Conservation Status: Least Concern
Habitat: Arid and dry savannas south of the Sahara.
Threats: Poaching, habitat and acacia tree loss due to agriculture and population expansion.
Watch a violent "necking" fight in progress!:
http://www.discovery.com/tv-shows/africa/videos/violent-giraffe-fight/
Sources:
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giraffe
http://www.awf.org/wildlife-conservation/giraffe
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