* Incredibly Long: It can reach up to 21 inches (53 cm) long, which is longer than some human hands! This allows them to easily reach high into the trees to grab leaves.
* Prehensile: It's very flexible and can wrap around branches, much like an elephant's trunk. This helps them pluck leaves with precision.
* Rough and Bumpy: The surface of the tongue is covered in tiny bumps, giving it a rough texture. This helps them hold onto leaves and strip them from branches.
* Darkly Pigmented: The tongue is often dark blue or black, which helps protect it from the sun's heat.
* Highly Sensitive: It is incredibly sensitive to taste and touch, helping them select the most nutritious leaves.
* Tough and Strong: It's tough enough to withstand thorns and sharp twigs without getting injured.
These adaptations make the giraffe's tongue a remarkable tool that enables them to thrive in their unique environment, consuming the high-reaching acacia leaves that are their primary food source.