What are the behavioral adaptations of a giraffe?

Answer 1

Nine different subspecies of giraffe are present in Africa. Each species displays the traditional long neck that makes the animal so recognizable. The giraffe is the tallest land animal on earth, standing over 18-feet tall. This physical adaptation makes the giraffe unusual in the animal kingdom. However, to survive the giraffe has also developed a number of behavioral adaptations to keep it safe and to decide which males get to mate with the females.

Drinking

A giraffe is at its most exposed to predators when it bends down for a drink. The animal must get in an awkward position with its front legs so its head can reach the water. Predators such as crocodiles and lions can take a giraffe down once in this position very easily. The giraffe has developed a behavioral adaptation to drink water, getting as much water as quickly as it can.

Necking

The long necks of the giraffe play a large role in determining dominance and mating rights among giraffes. Two male giraffes will fight in what is called necking. The giraffes will use their necks to swing their heads to land a blow on the other male giraffe. The longer necks and heavier heads tend to win these disputes. The assumption is that the neck of the giraffe is part of the sexual selection of the species and not just an adaption to reach high leaves on trees.

Groups

Female giraffes stay in groups or herds with young males, which is done to better detect predators for the entire group. Males may also live in bachelor herds for protection. Older mature males may live a solitary life. No hierarchy exists, such as a dominate female, within the herd, and giraffes can leave or enter the herd at any time.

Newborns

The most dangerous time of a giraffe's life is the few minutes after it is born. The newborn must get up and walk within a few minutes of birth to avoid predators. The mother will keep the newborn hidden for the first month. Thereafter, the calf stays within the female herd in a nursery that is watched over by all the giraffes in the herd to protect the calves.

Answer 2

Giraffes have adapted to their environment by developing a long neck to reach high branches for food, specialized valves in their blood vessels to prevent blood flow fluctuations when they bend down to drink, and a unique way of walking to maintain balance while running. Additionally, their spotted coat pattern helps camouflage them in their habitat.

Answer 3

They often stick together as they migrate and the adults protect the younger ones.

Answer 4

They feed on vegetation high above the ground and tend to run from danger.