Giraffe Reproduction

Giraffes breed throughout the year. Giraffe gestation lasts between 14 and 15 months, after which a single calf is born. Twins are uncommon but do occur.

At birth, giraffe calves are 2 m tall from the ground to the shoulders. Newborn giraffes weigh 50 to 55 kg. Young giraffes are very vulnerable because they cannot defend themselves. The young giraffes can fall prey to lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, and wild dogs. After 2 to 4 weeks, mother giraffes steer their young calves into creche groups.