Giraffe

Giraffes

Prepare to meet the world’s tallest mammals by looking up – way, way up. We are home to two giraffes, male ‘Nabo’ and his female offspring ‘Moshi’.

The longest necks in the animal kingdom

With legs that are taller than most humans and necks that can reach the highest leaves on trees, giraffes stand high above us. These grassland dwellers live in small groups called towers. With such an enormous body comes an enormous appetite – giraffes can spend up to 20 hours a day eating.

 

  • IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (at high risk of extinction in the wild)
  • Type: Mammal
  • Habitat: Savannah areas of sub-Saharan Africa
  • Diet: Herbivore – leaves of acacia and mimosa trees
  • Size: 14 to 19 feet
  • Weight: 1,750 to 2,800 pounds
Giraffe Giraffes Giraffe
Giraffe

Care & Conservation

How we care for them

At the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, we are bringing together our passion for plants and animals with our dedication to taking and inspiring action to sustain wildlife and wild places.
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facts about our animals

Fun Facts about Giraffes

Giraffes are typically taller than a one-story house (16 feet tall).

They can eat up to 75 pounds of food each day.

Female giraffes give birth standing up.

Their tongues are between 18 and 21 inches long.

They can run up to 56 kilometres an hour.

Giraffes only need to drink water every few days as they get most of their water from plants.

Giraffe

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How you can help

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Meet our Animals

Destination Africa

Hippo at the zoo

Destination Africa

Hippos

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Black and White Ruffed Lemur

Destination Africa

Lemurs

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African lion, Baruti

Destination Africa

African Lions

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Chacoan Peccary

Plan your visit

Get close to wildlife

It’s time to make some memories. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable day at the zoo.