Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Why do Giraffes have Long Necks?

Giraffes have long necks so that they can reach the top of trees and feed on the leaves which grow there. As other animals feed on the lower parts of the tree, giraffes do not have to compete for the same source of food for all. This is one of nature’s ways of ensuring that food sources are used to the best advantage and nothing is wasted.

By stretching their long necks upward, giraffes can browse on leaves six meters above the ground. Having such a long neck is fine for eating the tops of trees, but it is a long way down when the giraffe wants to drink.

Giraffes have to spread their legs wide apart to enable their heads to get close enough to the water to drink.

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