Why do giraffes have long necks?

Giraffes have long necks in order to reach leaves, fruits and flowers high up in trees. They feed on broad-leafed trees in the rainy seasons and on evergreen trees in other seasons. Their long necks allow them to reach leaves that other animals cannot.

The long neck of the giraffe also helps it see for long distances, allowing it to spot predators. In addition to their long legs and necks, giraffes have very long tongues and can tilt their long heads to extend their reach higher into the canopy of the tree. Male giraffes use their long necks to engage in a ritualistic fight called "necking."