Giraffe Ritual Dance

NAMIBIAN GIRAFFE Kameelperd — giraffe camelopardalis angolensis

The name giraffe originated from the Arabic word, zarafah. Up to nine subspecies of giraffe are recognised in Africa. Here, they are found in northern Namibia, the southwestern parts of Zambia, Botswana and western Zimbabwe. A genetic study (2009) on this subspecies suggests the populations of northern Namibia and Etosha form a separate subspecies. This particular giraffe has large brown blotches with serrated edges or angular extensions. The pattern of blotches can also be seen on the legs but is absent on the upper side of the face. The blotches on the neck and belly tend to be smaller, and the subspecies also has a white patch on the ears.

The Namib giraffes can be found in desert environments. They prefer trees from the genus Acacia, the Kanniedood and Vaalboom, which are important sources of calcium and protein to maintain the pace of growth of the giraffe. They also feed on grass, seed pods and fruit.