The Masai giraffe has jagged, vine-leaf-shaped patches and is the largest giraffe species. It feeds on acacia leaves, and its tongue is about 45 cm long and tough enough to handle thorns. Giraffe live in loose herds and are common in most northern parks.
Ungulates
Masai Giraffe
Giraffa tippelskirchi
The tallest animal on Earth, and Tanzania's national animal.
Size
Up to 5.5 m tall; 800-1,200 kg
Lifespan
20-25 years
Diet
Acacia leaves and shoots.
Habitat
Savannah and open woodland with acacia trees.
About the masai giraffe
Did you know?
01
A giraffe has the same number of neck bones as a human: seven.
02
Newborn calves are around 1.8 metres tall.
03
They sleep for only a few minutes at a time.
When to see it
Seen all year round; the best sightings depend on where you are.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
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Aug
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Where to see it in Tanzania
Trips that go there
Where to meet the masai giraffe
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Big Five
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