Species Overview

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Giraffidae

Genus: Giraffa

Species: Giraffa camelopardalis

Life Span: 25–30 years (in the wild)

Weight: 800–1,200 kg (1,760–2,645 lbs)

Height: 4.3–5.5 meters (14–18 feet)

Animal Behavior and Habits

Activity: Diurnal – most active during daylight hours, particularly early morning and late afternoon.

Feeding Habits: Herbivores – primarily feed on the leaves, fruits, and flowers of trees, particularly acacias.

Social Structure: Live in loose, non-territorial herds, typically 10–20 individuals, with no fixed dominance hierarchy.

Hunting Approach: Rarely hunted by humans, as they are large and generally difficult to approach. Focus on stalking in areas with good cover or water sources.

Habitat and Environment

Preferred Habitat: Open woodlands, savannas, and grasslands, often near waterholes.

Water Sources: Drink regularly at waterholes, although they can go for several days without water.

Best Hunting Locations: Areas with dense trees or open savannas, particularly near water sources.

Tracks and Trails: Large, cloven-hoofed tracks, with distinct prints and deep impressions in soft soil.

Signs: Look for browsing signs, such as eaten tree tops, and tracks near water sources or in wooded areas.

Hunting Time

Ideal Hunting Times: Early morning or late afternoon, as they are most active during these times.

Breeding Season: Year-round, with peak calving during the wet season (usually January–March).

Trophy Quality: Look for mature males with thick, long horns. Trophy-quality giraffes typically have dark, robust horns with prominent ridges.

Use of Scent Lures: Not typically used for giraffes, but can be helpful in attracting them to a specific area.