- Defense: Ossicones, which are horn-like structures, can be used as weapons to defend against predators. Giraffes can swing their necks and use their ossicones to strike or jab at predators.
- Dominance: Ossicones are used to establish and maintain dominance within the giraffe herd. Males will neck wrestle and clash their ossicones to determine which is dominant.
- Protection: Ossicones can provide protection for the giraffe's head and neck. They can be used to block blows from predators and to protect vulnerable areas such as the eyes and nose.
- Courtship: Ossicones are also used in courtship rituals. Males will use their ossicones to show off to females and to compete for their attention.
- Grooming: Ossicones can be used for grooming. Giraffes use the tips of their ossicones to rub their necks, heads, and backs.