Norristown in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Giraffe
Giraffa camelopardalis
— Species Survival Plan —
Tallest mammal; reaching 19 feet.
Can weigh up to 2,800 pounds (more than a ton).
Has a prehensile (grasping), black 18 inch tongue.
May run as fast as 35 miles per hour.
A newborn giraffe is six feet tall.
Diet: leaves, twigs and bark; shrubs.
Range: African savannahs and grasslands.
The heart of the giraffe is two feet long and weighs 25 pounds. It beats 170 times per minute. The giraffe has the highest known blood pressure of any mammal, about twice that of the average human.
Quick Fact - Both male and female giraffes have horns.
Conservation Corner
The giraffe population is shrinking as its habitat shrinks. Human populations have grown and increased agricultural activities and road construction. Poaching is another great concern.
Erected by Elmwood Park Zoo.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Animals • Environment • Roads & Vehicles.
Location. 40° 7.965′ N, 75° 20.268′ W. Marker is in Norristown, Pennsylvania, in Montgomery County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Harding Boulevard and Chain Street, on the
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Barred Owl (within shouting distance of this marker); Chacoan Peccary (within shouting distance of this marker); Nene (within shouting distance of this marker); Peregrine Falcon (within shouting distance of this marker); Dr. Charles M. Daub, Sr. (within shouting distance of this marker); Bald Eagle (within shouting distance of this marker); Donald Kimmel (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); North American River Otter (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Norristown.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 22, 2022. It was originally submitted on November 22, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 54 times since then and 6 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on November 22, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
