Majestic wild giraffes spar for dominance in Africa

The African plain is home to some of the most majestic and beautiful animals in the world. These wild giraffes inhabit the grasslands of Kenya, a large country on the west side of Africa. Deep within the grasslands, a herd of giraffes grazes and wanders in the sunshine. Ever alert for predators, these animals are the tallest land dwellers and they have a vantage point that allows them to see lions and other big cats from that are a long way off. The giraffes spend their time contentedly roaming free.Show more

But within the herd, there is a hierarchy that must be maintained. These young males, known as bulls, grow to nearly 6m (18 feet) in height and can weigh as much as 1500kg (3,600 lbs). They are giants and they are powerful. The bulls are constantly sizing each other up and reminding the others of who is in charge. When two mature males are present, the ensuing battle will often result on one of them leaving the herd.

These young bulls are just beginning to test each other. They swing their large heads and strike each other with their necks, or even their hooves. As they grow older and larger, the battles will become more serious. But, for now, this is no more than a minor scuffle with no injuries and little accomplished. These bouts will also help the giraffes to learn how to battle predators when the time comes.

Many herbivores rely on the safety of the herd and the ability to dissuade even the most determined lion. A strike with these antlers, or a well placed hoof could prove fatal for a cat. They will usually only attack a giraffe that seems exhausted or injured, or one who ventures too far from the others. A mother giraffe will ferociously defend her calf, often killing several lions, if needed.