
While Lisa was here for the full month, we often discussed the possibility of giraffes walking through the garden and stopping to graze. It never happened, although she saw many giraffes when we drove along the roads in Marloth Park and Kruger National Park.
However, seeing these magnificent animals walking through the garden of our holiday home is very special. It’s happened many times over the years we’ve spent in Marloth Park, but it hadn’t occurred to us since we arrived on March 3, two months ago, until yesterday early afternoon, one day after Lisa left.

She has since arrived safely back in Florida, and I couldn’t resist sending her photos of these amazing visitors. Although she was undoubtedly disappointed she’d missed this momentous event, she felt satisfied with all she’d witnessed in this magical place.
The giraffes could easily have visited when we were out during the day or evening. Based on our busy schedule while she was here, we often took a short nap during the day and could have easily missed their arrival since they are so quiet. In any case, Tom and I were outrageously excited to see them.

As mentioned in one of today’s captions, getting good face shots was impossible while they were here yesterday. Their heads stayed buried in the treetops, munching on the remaining vegetation they chose to eat.
Here are some interesting facts about giraffes, some of which we may have shared years ago, but not most recently.

Fascinating Facts About Giraffes
Giraffes are among the most iconic and beloved animals in the world. Their towering necks, gentle demeanor, and striking patterns capture attention wherever they roam. Native to the savannas and open woodlands of Africa, giraffes are not just tall—they’re full of surprises. Here are some of the most interesting facts about these graceful giants.
1. Tallest Land Mammal on Earth
A fully grown giraffe can reach heights of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters), making it the tallest land animal in the world. Males are generally taller than females, with some towering over 6 feet just at the shoulders. Their long legs and necks help them reach leaves high up in acacia trees, which many other herbivores can’t access.

2. Despite the Long Neck, Only Seven Vertebrae
You might assume a giraffe’s neck has dozens of vertebrae, but surprisingly, it has just seven—the same number as humans! Each vertebra is much longer, around 10 inches (25 centimeters), allowing that signature stretch.
3. Giraffes Barely Sleep
Giraffes are some of the lightest sleepers in the animal kingdom. On average, they sleep only 4.6 hours per day, often in short naps of just a few minutes at a time. In the wild, they often sleep standing up to remain alert to predators.

4. Their Heart Works Hard
A giraffe’s heart must be incredibly powerful to pump blood up to their brain. It weighs around 25 pounds (11 kilograms) and can generate twice the blood pressure of a human heart. Specialized valves and tight skin on their legs help prevent blood from rushing downward due to gravity.
5. A Unique Form of Communication
For a long time, people thought giraffes were silent, but recent studies show they communicate using low-frequency sounds, or infrasound, that humans can’t hear. They also hum at night, possibly to stay connected with the herd.

6. Tongues Built for Survival
A giraffe’s tongue can be up to 20 inches (50 centimeters) long and is prehensile, meaning it can grasp and twist around branches. It’s also dark blue or purple, likely to protect it from sunburn as it feeds for hours daily in the hot African sun.
7. Each Pattern Is Unique
Just like human fingerprints, no two giraffes have the same coat pattern. Their spots help with camouflage and thermoregulation—patches have a complex vascular system underneath to release body heat.
8. Rapid Newborn Development
When a giraffe calf is born, it drops about six feet to the ground—a rough start to life! But within an hour, it’s already standing and trying to walk, essential for survival in predator-filled environments.

9. Giraffes Are in Danger
Despite their gentle image, giraffes are currently listed as vulnerable, with some subspecies critically endangered. Habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict are major threats. Conservation efforts are underway to protect them.
10. They Have a Surprisingly Fierce Kick
A giraffe’s kick can be deadly. Their long, strong legs can deliver a powerful blow capable of killing a lion if threatened.
Last night, we had another wonderful evening at Jabula. It was packed with tourists and locals as the holiday season and school holidays end tomorrow, and people will begin to leave. Again, the locals and Tom and I look forward to many animals returning to our gardens for a quieter and more peaceful bush experience.
Yesterday, we stopped at The Butchery in the Bush Centre to buy more biltong, and they were totally out of any that was dried enough to sell. Biltong hangs on racks to dry and is put into the slicing machine. The thoughtful staff agreed to save some for Monday while they continue the drying process.
Tonight, we’re meeting Kathy, Don, and Connie for our final get-together at Jabula before they return to their home in Hawaii in a few days. We cherished our time together and look forward to seeing them in Hawaii in 2026 when one of our cruises has a 36-hour port-of-call stop.
Have a lovely weekend, and please know that we always think of all of YOU!
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, May 3, 2015:
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This Laysan Albatross chick in Kauai was sitting close to the road, wondering what I was doing. For more photos, please click here. |