Do giraffes ever lie down?

Giraffes lie down on rare occasions. More often than not, giraffes remain standing while they rest as there are constant threats to their survival, and they must remain alert.

Giraffes lie down by folding their legs under their bodies. When they lie down, they often keep their necks and heads erect. Sometimes they continue browsing and ruminating while in this position.

This period of rest never lasts for more than 5 minutes as giraffes have many predators throughout the African habitats, including large cats. Giraffes that travel in groups take turns allowing some members to rest while others keep a watch out for predators.