Daily Feeding:
* Grazing Time: Giraffes spend the majority of their day grazing, typically between 16-20 hours.
* Peak Feeding Hours: They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and leaves are more tender.
* Specific Plant Preferences: Giraffes prefer to eat acacia trees, but they will also eat other trees, shrubs, and even fruit if available.
* High Intake: A giraffe can consume up to 75 pounds of foliage daily!
Unique Adaptations for Feeding:
* Long Neck: Their long necks allow them to reach high into the trees, where they can access leaves that other animals cannot.
* Prehensile Tongue: Giraffes have a long, prehensile tongue that can extend up to 21 inches, allowing them to reach leaves and buds with ease.
* Sharp Teeth: They have specialized teeth that are designed for tearing and grinding leaves.
* Low Water Intake: Giraffes do not drink very much water because they get most of their hydration from the leaves they eat.
Feeding in Captivity:
* Variety of Foliage: In zoos and sanctuaries, giraffes are typically fed a variety of trees and shrubs, including acacia, eucalyptus, and mulberry.
* Supplements: They may also be given hay, pellets, and vitamins and minerals to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need.
Note: While giraffes are generally peaceful creatures, they can become territorial when it comes to food. You should never approach a giraffe while it is eating.
I hope this information about giraffes' feeding schedule was helpful!