Not only are giraffes the tallest animal in the world with very long necks, their tongues are also long, approximately 45-50 cm (18 to 22 inches) long. Fully grown giraffes stand 4.3 - 5.7 meters (14.1 - 18.7 feet), with males taller than females.

This length is needed for a giraffe to fed on a range of different branches and leaves. The height of the animal plus the length of its tongue allows the giraffe to reach the highest level of foliage on a tree. Papillae cover the tongue and the inside of the mouth. These are small protrusions on the tongue where the taste buds sit.

The color of their tongue is black, blue or purple with a pink base/back due to a density of melanin color pigments. Generally the tongue is thought to be such a dark color to protect it during frequent sun exposure while eating, however this fact is not validated with scientific certainty. It is considered a prehensile tongue- referring to the animal’s ability to grasp items and pull leaves into their mouths, almost like a hand, or an elephant’s trunk.

Another fact about the giraffe’s tongue- the length helps the animal avoid the thorns when feeding on acacia trees.

In addition to the tongue’s texture, a protective leathery on the lips and tongue, secrete a sticky, thick saliva that coats any thorns that make it past their lips. If the tongue is cut during the feeding process, this special saliva has antiseptic properties to help it heal quickly without getting infected.

More Info: safarisafricana.com