How Many Spots Does a Giraffe Have?

How Many Spots Does a Giraffe Have?. Giraffes are an easily recognizable creature and also a popular animal in zoo exhibits. Their spots are their most recognizable feature, and there are several interesting facts about them.

Number of Spots

The number of spots that a giraffe has varies, as does the size of the spots. Most giraffes have at least a couple hundred spots, but there is no set number for the entire species.

Different Coat Patterns

There is only one recognized species of giraffe, but there are nine recognized subspecies. Each subspecies has a different coat pattern. For example, the reticulated giraffe is found in northeast Kenya, and its spots are very boxlike and regular. This coat pattern is the one commonly seen in art, photographs and zoo exhibits.

Spot Colors

Giraffes' spots and general coat colors can also vary. Their coats can be colored from a very light tan, to a color that is almost black. A giraffe’s diet, as well as its location, determines what color its spots and coat will be.

References

• National Geographic: Giraffes
• San Diego Zoo: Giraffes
• Brookfield Zoo: Giraffes