At Tsavo Trust, we are fortunate to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitats, and giraffes are no exception. These towering giants of the savannah captivate us not only with their height but also with their unique adaptations and behaviours. One of the most common questions we encounter is, “How tall is a giraffe?” In this article, we’ll explore the answer in depth while sharing some fascinating facts about giraffes, including their species, parenting habits, and evolutionary marvels.
How tall is a giraffe?
Giraffes are the tallest land animals on Earth, with males reaching an average height of 4.6 to 6 meters (15-20 feet) and females measuring slightly shorter at 4 to 5.2 meters (13-17 feet). To put this into perspective, a giraffe’s legs alone are about 6 feet tall—taller than the average human!
The tallest giraffe ever recorded was a Masai giraffe named George, who stood at an astonishing 5.8 meters (19 feet). Born in Kenya, George lived at Chester Zoo in England until his death in 1969. Today, the title of the tallest living giraffe belongs to Forest, a Nubian giraffe at Australia Zoo, who measures 5.7 meters (18 feet 8 inches).
At birth, giraffes already stand tall. A newborn giraffe measures approximately 1.9 meters (6 feet) and weighs around 68 kilograms (150 pounds). They grow rapidly in their first year, adding about 1.2 meters (4 feet) to their height.
Giraffe species and their heights
Giraffes are divided into four main species:
- Northern Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis): This species includes four subspecies—Kordofan, Nubian, Rothschild, and West African giraffes. They inhabit parts of Central and West Africa and are known for their striking coat patterns.
- Southern Giraffe (Giraffa giraffa): Found in southern Africa, this species is further divided into Angolan and South African giraffes.
- Masai Giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi): Native to Kenya and Tanzania, Masai giraffes can grow up to 5.5 meters (18 feet). They can be split into Maasai giraffe and Thornicroft’s giraffe.
- Reticulated Giraffe (Giraffa reticulata): Found in northern Kenya and southern Ethiopia, these giraffes are famous for their distinct, net-like coat patterns. Males can reach 5.5 meters (18 feet) in height.
The smallest giraffe subspecies is the Kordofan giraffe, standing between 3.8 and 4.7 meters (12-15 feet).

How much does a giraffe weigh?
Giraffes are not only tall but also incredibly heavy. Males can weigh up to 1,930 kilograms (4,250 pounds), while females typically weigh up to 1,180 kilograms (2,600 pounds). Despite their size, giraffes are surprisingly agile, able to gallop at speeds of up to 60 km/h (37 mph) over short distances.
What type of giraffe is in Tsavo Conservation Area?
Tsavo Conservation Area is home to two giraffe species: the Masai giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi) and the Reticulated giraffe (Giraffa reticulata). These giraffes thrive in the diverse ecosystems of Tsavo, which range from savannahs to woodlands, providing abundant food and space for their wide-ranging movements.
According to Kenya’s 2021 National Wildlife Census, there are approximately 4,314 giraffes in the Tsavo Conservation Area. Nationally, the population figures for giraffes in Kenya are:
- Maasai giraffe: 13,732
- Nubian giraffe: 768
- Reticulated giraffe: 19,740
These numbers underscore Kenya’s importance as a stronghold for giraffe conservation, particularly for the Masai and Reticulated giraffes in Tsavo.
Fascinating giraffe facts
1. Ossicones: Nature’s Unique Headgear
One of the most notable features of giraffe’s is their ossicones—conical, skin-covered bone structures atop their heads. Unlike horns or antlers, ossicones are permanently covered in skin and fur and develop in a distinct way. Both males and females possess ossicones, but males often use theirs in combat, delivering powerful blows during fights for dominance. There is also evidence to suggest that these structures may aid in thermoregulation due to their high amount of nerve vessels and a rich bloody supply.
2. Parenting in Creches
Giraffe mothers demonstrate exceptional parenting by forming groups called creches. In these groups, one female, often a mother, supervises the calves while the others forage for food. This cooperative system increases calf survival rates, as the calves benefit from both protection and social learning in a safe environment.
3. Closest Relative: The Elusive Okapi
While giraffes are unmistakable in their appearance, their closest relative, the okapi, is far less well-known. Found in the dense rainforests of the Congo, the okapi has a shorter neck but shares many similarities with giraffes, such as ossicones and a long prehensile tongue. With an estimated population of only 5,000 to 30,000, okapis are classified as endangered and remain elusive to researchers.
4. Camelopardis: The Name Explained
The Northern giraffe’s scientific name, Giraffa camelopardalis, translates to “camel wearing a leopard’s coat.” This peculiar description reflects its long neck, reminiscent of a camel, and its striking spotted pattern, akin to a leopard’s fur.
5. Circulatory Superpower
One of the giraffe’s most fascinating adaptations is its specialised circulatory system, which allows it to pump blood efficiently to its towering head. The left ventricle of its heart is highly muscular, enabling it to push blood upward against gravity. Meanwhile, elastic vessels prevent blood from rushing to the brain when a giraffe lowers its head, avoiding potential damage from sudden pressure changes.
Giraffes are a marvel of evolution, combining towering height, intricate social structures, and unique adaptations. From their ossicones to their specialised circulatory systems, every aspect of a giraffe is designed for survival in Africa’s diverse landscapes. By understanding and protecting these incredible creatures, we contribute to preserving the intricate web of life in which they play a crucial role.
Support our efforts at Tsavo Trust to safeguard giraffes and other wildlife by spreading awareness and advocating for conservation initiatives. Together, we can ensure these giants continue to grace the savannah for generations to come.