Giraffoids | Giraffoidea

Giraffoids | Giraffoidea

Description
Description

Giraffoids, or Giraffoidea, are a superfamily of ruminant mammals that primarily includes today's giraffes and okapis. These creatures are most notably characterized by their long necks and legs, adapted for reaching high foliage. Giraffes inhabit African savannas and open woodlands, while the more elusive okapis dwell in the dense rainforests of central Africa. The evolution of giraffoids traces back around 25 million years, with fossil records showing various extinct species having varying neck lengths. Their unique anatomy and evolutionary path are a testament to nature's ability to adapt and specialize, enabling these creatures to exploit niches unavailable to other herbivores.

Anatomy
Anatomy

Giraffoids boast distinctive anatomical features. Giraffes, with their towering necks and legs, are the tallest land animals, enabling them to feed on treetop leaves. Their spotted patterns offer camouflage among trees. Okapis, though shorter, share a long neck and have unique dark velvet coats with striped legs, resembling zebras. Both species have horn-like structures, called ossicones, atop their heads.

Giraffes gracefully roam the savannas, while okapis move silently through dense forests. Giraffes communicate using infrasound, low-frequency sounds inaudible to humans. Their large eyes offer a wide field of view, and their tongues, especially in giraffes, are long and prehensile, adept at grasping foliage.

Human Interaction
Human Interaction

Giraffoids, specifically giraffes and okapis, have long fascinated humans. Their unique appearance and gentle demeanor have made them zoo and safari favorites. In ancient cultures, giraffes symbolized exoticism and were gifted to rulers. Pop culture references, from Geoffrey the Toys "R" Us mascot to the animated "Madagascar" films, underscore their appeal. Okapis, being elusive, are less recognized but equally intriguing.

Unfortunately, habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict threaten giraffoids. Giraffes are now classified under varying conservation statuses, from vulnerable to critically endangered, across different subspecies. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation, anti-poaching initiatives, and raising awareness to safeguard these magnificent creatures' future.

Common Questions
Common Questions
What is a giraffe related to?

The Okapi is the giraffe’s only living relative. We can find this endangered animal in the Ituri Rainforest. It has a short neck and legs, but among the features it shares with the giraffe include a fur covered in ossicones and a specialized tongue, teeth, and stomach. Otherwise, you may think it is a cross between a deer and a zebra.

Why are giraffes endangered?

There are less than a hundred thousand giraffes left in the wild, and this number is slowly reducing because of human activities destroying their habitat, climate change, civil unrest, and illegal poaching. While the entire giraffe species is vulnerable, two species, the Kordofan and Nubian giraffe are considered critically endangered by the IUCN.

What does a giraffe symbolize?

There are so many things that a giraffe symbolizes. Its beautiful body and coat color symbolize sexuality and pride, while its tall stance and long neck the ability to look into the future. Other communities also think that its gentleness, peace, and social nature symbolize peace and harmony, and when it appears in your dreams, prepare yourself for hard times.

Animals

* Under Development *

15.75’-20’ | 4.8-6.1 m
2.5’-3.3’ | .75-1 m
13.5’-17.4’ | 4.1-5.3 m
1,543-4,189 lb | 700-1,900 kg
10-27 years
Masai Giraffe
610.000
100.000
530.000
1900.000
27.00
6270
GUIDE
3D
Masai Giraffe
14’-18.7’ | 4.3-5.7 m
2.3’-3.1’ | .7-.95 m
12.3’-16.1’ | 3.75-4.9 m
1,830-2,646 lb | 830-1,200 kg
10-25 years
Northern Giraffe
570.000
95.000
490.000
1200.000
25.00
16100
GUIDE
3D
Northern Giraffe
Okapi
353700
5.25’-6.7’ | 1.6-2.05 m
17.7”-23.6” | .45-.6 m
6.2’-8.2’ | 1.9-2.5 m
397-772 lb | 180-350 kg
15-34 years
Okapi
205.000
60.000
250.000
350.000
34.00
353700
GUIDE
3D
Okapi
3.6’-4.1’ | 1.1-1.25 m
12”-13.8” | .3-.35 m
4.3’-4.9’ | 1.3-1.5 m
88-154 lb | 40-70 kg
10-15 years
Pronghorn
125.000
35.000
150.000
70.000
15.00
76300
GUIDE
3D
Pronghorn
14’-18’ | 4.3-5.5 m
2.5’-3.3’ | .75-1 m
11.8’-15.1’ | 3.6-4.6 m
2,601-4,255 lb | 1,180-1,930 kg
10-27 years
Reticulated Giraffe
550.000
100.000
460.000
1930.000
27.00
8900
GUIDE
3D
Reticulated Giraffe
16’-19’ | 4.9-5.8 m
2.8’-3.4’ | .85-1.05 m
13.5’-16.1’ | 4.1-4.9 m
1,764-2,866 lb | 800-1,300 kg
10-25 years
West African Giraffe
580.000
105.000
490.000
1300.000
25.00
1600
GUIDE
3D
West African Giraffe
Northern Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
Scale illustration of an average Northern Giraffe with compared to a human

The Northern Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) is mostly found in west Africa. In the past century, it was also found in North Africa but no longer inhabits those places. Some communities call it the three-horned giraffe. This is because of the long and larger two or sometimes three distinctive horn-like protuberances on its forehead. In its native home, it is mostly seen in the savannahs, shrublands, and woodlands. Males and females have similar body sizes. However, males are a bit taller. The Northern giraffe is identified by its pale spots and intense patches on the face

Northern Giraffes have a standing height between 14’-18.7’ (4.3-5.7 m), overall body length from 12.3’-16.1’ (3.75-4.9 m), and body width of 2.3’-3.1’ (.7-.95 m). The weight of a Northern Giraffe is between 1,830-2,646 lb (830-1,200 kg). Northern Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-25 years.

Collection of scaled drawings of Northern Giraffe in various poses
The Northern Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) is mostly found in west Africa. In the past century, it was also found in North Africa but no longer inhabits those places. Some communities call it the three-horned giraffe. This is because of the long and larger two or three distinctive horns.

Northern Giraffes have a standing height between 14’-18.7’ (4.3-5.7 m), overall body length from 12.3’-16.1’ (3.75-4.9 m), and body width of 2.3’-3.1’ (.7-.95 m). The weight of a Northern Giraffe is between 1,830-2,646 lb (830-1,200 kg). Northern Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-25 years.

Collection of scaled drawings of Northern Giraffe in various poses
Northern Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis)
Height:
14’-18.7’ | 4.3-5.7 m
Width:
2.3’-3.1’ | .7-.95 m
Length:
12.3’-16.1’ | 3.75-4.9 m
Depth:
Withers Height
Weight:
1,830-2,646 lb | 830-1,200 kg
Area:
Scientific Name
Giraffa camelopardalis
Lifespan
10-25 years

Drawings include:

Northern Giraffe side elevation, front, lying down

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Masai Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi)
Comparison illustration of the size of a Masai Giraffe to a typical person

East Africa is the perfect place to find the Masai Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi). This is the largest giraffe species and is separated from its nearest cousin and neighbor, the reticulated giraffe by the jagged spots on its coat rather than polygon spots. These spots are irregular and star-like, and below the knee are buff-colored. Males show a median lump on their foreheads. Some communities call it the Kilimanjaro giraffe and may live in small social groupings. Like most giraffes, the Masai giraffe also has ossicones-skin-covered horns. In addition, males have bald heads and females have thick hair on their heads. The Masai giraffe is a diurnal animal.

Masai Giraffes have a standing height between 15.75’-20’ (4.8-6.1 m), overall body length from 13.5’-17.4’ (4.1-5.3 m), and body width of 2.5’-3.3’ (.75-1 m). The weight of a Masai Giraffe is between 1,543-4,189 lb (700-1,900 kg). Masai Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-27 years.

Series of side elevation illustrations of the Masai Giraffe
East Africa is the perfect place to find the Masai Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi). This is the largest giraffe species and is separated from its nearest cousin and neighbor, the reticulated giraffe by the jagged spots on its coat rather than polygon spots.

Masai Giraffes have a standing height between 15.75’-20’ (4.8-6.1 m), overall body length from 13.5’-17.4’ (4.1-5.3 m), and body width of 2.5’-3.3’ (.75-1 m). The weight of a Masai Giraffe is between 1,543-4,189 lb (700-1,900 kg). Masai Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-27 years.

Series of side elevation illustrations of the Masai Giraffe
Masai Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi)
Height:
15.75’-20’ | 4.8-6.1 m
Width:
2.5’-3.3’ | .75-1 m
Length:
13.5’-17.4’ | 4.1-5.3 m
Depth:
Withers Height
Weight:
1,543-4,189 lb | 700-1,900 kg
Area:
Scientific Name
Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi
Lifespan
10-27 years

Drawings include:

Masai Giraffe side elevation, front, back

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West African Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis peralta)
Comparison illustration of the size of a West African Giraffe to a typical person

Currently, herds of the West African Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis peralta) are found in southwest Niger, unlike before when you could find them occupying areas from Senegal to Lake Chad. Some communities also call it the Niger giraffe or Nigerien giraffe. The light, tan-colored spots on its body separate it from other species of giraffes whose spots are a little darker. Males are taller and with thick horns compared to females. Besides, males show balds on their heads while females have hair. The West African giraffe is nomadic and is a subspecies of the Northern Giraffe.

West African Giraffes have a standing height between 16’-19’ (4.9-5.8 m), overall body length from 13.5’-16.1’ (4.1-4.9 m), and body width of 2.8’-3.4’ (.85-1.05 m). The weight of a West African Giraffe is between 1,764-2,866 lb (800-1,300 kg). West African Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-25 years.

Series of side elevation illustrations of the West African Giraffe
Currently, herds of the West African Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis peralta) are found in southwest Niger, unlike before when you could find them occupying areas from Senegal to Lake Chad. Some communities also call it the Niger giraffe or Nigerien giraffe.

West African Giraffes have a standing height between 16’-19’ (4.9-5.8 m), overall body length from 13.5’-16.1’ (4.1-4.9 m), and body width of 2.8’-3.4’ (.85-1.05 m). The weight of a West African Giraffe is between 1,764-2,866 lb (800-1,300 kg). West African Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-25 years.

Series of side elevation illustrations of the West African Giraffe
West African Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis peralta)
Height:
16’-19’ | 4.9-5.8 m
Width:
2.8’-3.4’ | .85-1.05 m
Length:
13.5’-16.1’ | 4.1-4.9 m
Depth:
Withers Height
Weight:
1,764-2,866 lb | 800-1,300 kg
Area:
Scientific Name
Giraffa camelopardalis peralta
Lifespan
10-25 years

Drawings include:

West African Giraffe side elevation, front, back

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Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata)
Dimensioned comparison drawing of the Reticulated Giraffe compared to an average person

The Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) is probably the most common giraffe you will see in zoos. In the wild, you will find it in Somalia and other countries in the Horn of Africa. That is why it is also called Somali giraffes. The name reticulated comes from the large brown and white brick-like pattern or chestnut brown spots on its coat. These spots only reach the knee is what is used to distinguish it from the Masai giraffe. Males are slightly taller and heavier than females. But, both have ossicones on their head.

Reticulated Giraffes have a standing height between 14’-18’ (4.3-5.5 m), overall body length from 11.8’-15.1’ (3.6-4.6 m), and body width of 2.5’-3.3’ (.75-1 m). The weight of a Reticulated Giraffe is between 2,601-4,255 lb (1,180-1,930 kg). Reticulated Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-27 years.

Set of standing side elevation drawings of the Reticulated Giraffe
The Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata) is probably the most common giraffe you will see in zoos. In the wild, you will find it in Somalia and other countries in the Horn of Africa. That is why it is also called Somali giraffes. The name reticulated comes from the large brick-like spot pattern.

Reticulated Giraffes have a standing height between 14’-18’ (4.3-5.5 m), overall body length from 11.8’-15.1’ (3.6-4.6 m), and body width of 2.5’-3.3’ (.75-1 m). The weight of a Reticulated Giraffe is between 2,601-4,255 lb (1,180-1,930 kg). Reticulated Giraffes have a typical lifespan of 10-27 years.

Set of standing side elevation drawings of the Reticulated Giraffe
Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata)
Height:
14’-18’ | 4.3-5.5 m
Width:
2.5’-3.3’ | .75-1 m
Length:
11.8’-15.1’ | 3.6-4.6 m
Depth:
Withers Height
Weight:
2,601-4,255 lb | 1,180-1,930 kg
Area:
Scientific Name
Giraffa reticulata
Lifespan
10-27 years

Drawings include:

Reticulated Giraffe side elevation, front, lying down

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Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana)
Dimensioned comparison drawing of the Pronghorn compared to an average person

It may look like an antelope, and some communities call it antelope, American antelope, prairie antelope, and Pronghorn antelope, but this is a Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana). It is native to the interior of western and central North America. One unique feature about it is that it is agile and a quick runner. Pronghorns are reddish brown on their back and white on their bellies. Besides, they also have white stripes on their throats. Both sexes have backward-curving horns that split, forming forward-pointing prongs. Females give birth to live young ones. Pronghorns are grazers and usually form social groupings, especially during winter.

Pronghorns have a standing height between 3.6’-4.1’ (1.1-1.25 m), body length from 4.3’-4.9’ (1.3-1.5 m), shoulder height of 2.6’-3.4’ (.8-1.05 m), and body width of 12”-13.8” (.3-.35 m). The weight of a Pronghorn is between 88-154 lb (40-70 kg). Pronghorns have a typical lifespan of 10-15 years.

Set of standing side elevation drawings of the Pronghorn
It may look like an antelope, and some communities call it antelope, American antelope, prairie antelope, and Pronghorn antelope, but this is a Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana). It is native to the interior of western and central North America.

Pronghorns have a standing height between 3.6’-4.1’ (1.1-1.25 m), body length from 4.3’-4.9’ (1.3-1.5 m), shoulder height of 2.6’-3.4’ (.8-1.05 m), and body width of 12”-13.8” (.3-.35 m). The weight of a Pronghorn is between 88-154 lb (40-70 kg). Pronghorns have a typical lifespan of 10-15 years.

Set of standing side elevation drawings of the Pronghorn
Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana)
Height:
3.6’-4.1’ | 1.1-1.25 m
Width:
12”-13.8” | .3-.35 m
Length:
4.3’-4.9’ | 1.3-1.5 m
Depth:
Withers Height
2.6’-3.4’ | .8-1.05 m
Weight:
88-154 lb | 40-70 kg
Area:
Scientific Name
Antilocapra americana
Lifespan
10-15 years

Drawings include:

Pronghorn side elevation (assorted), front, back

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