The Giraffe Biology, Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour

About this book

The giraffe is one of nature's most loved mammals. Evolving over 8 million years, there are nine recognized subspecies of this iconic African creature. While giraffes have long fascinated humans, their placid nature has ensured that the relationship with humans has often been to their own detriment. Two of the nine subspecies are currently listed as endangered and conservation work is hampered by war, civil unrest, habitat destruction and poaching.

The Giraffe: Biology, Ecology, Evolution and Behaviour reviews the fossil history, taxonomy, genetics, physiology, biomechanics, behaviour, ecology, and conservation of the giraffe. Topics include:
- The origin and evolution of modern giraffes
- Present distribution and geographical races
- Anatomy and physiology
- Individual behaviour
- Social networks and "loose" giraffe groups
- Population movement and regulation
- Conservation

Suitable for senior undergraduate and graduate students and researchers in zoology, wildlife management, population genetics, behavioural ecology and conservation, as well as amateur naturalists and conservationists.

Contents

Preface, vi
1 Introduction to the giraffe, 1
2 Origins, 13
3 Present distribution and geographical races, 26
4 Anatomy, 42
5 Physiology, 60
6 Individual behaviour, 76
7 Individual ecology, 100
8 Social networks, movement and population regulation, 134
9 Conservation status and wildlife reserves, 166
References, 187
Index, 217

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