Life's Little Mysteries

What's the Tallest Animal in the World?

giraffe
A giraffe ready for a close up. (Image credit: Robert Hooft; WikiCommons)

Giraffes are the tallest animals in the world. Males can grow up to 18 feet (5.5 meters) tall, females can reach 14 feet (4.3 meters) tall and their babies, called calves, are born six feet (1.8 meters) tall. Calves can grow up to an inch a day.

Click here to learn more about giraffes.

Live Science Staff
For the science geek in everyone, Live Science offers a fascinating window into the natural and technological world, delivering comprehensive and compelling news and analysis on everything from dinosaur discoveries, archaeological finds and amazing animals to health, innovation and wearable technology. We aim to empower and inspire our readers with the tools needed to understand the world and appreciate its everyday awe.