Resting giraffes: the fascinating reality of their sleep
When it comes to sleep, giraffes have some pretty unique habits.
World Giraffe Day (21 June) is the perfect time to learn more about these incredible creatures and the challenges they face. In celebration, we’re diving into a fascinating aspect of giraffe life: their sleep.
Northern giraffes only sleep for around 30 minutes a day in the wild, the shortest sleep requirement of any animal. But they still need quality sleep, just like us.
In the wild, giraffes often sleep in short, five-minute bursts while standing, always on high alert for predators like lions. Their bodies aren’t built for lying down for long, which makes it difficult for them to get up quickly if danger strikes. They also face challenges when drinking water, needing to awkwardly spread their legs to bend down to the ground, leaving them vulnerable to attack.
At Chester Zoo, though, things are a little different. What we've found is pretty fascinating! For example, the male giraffes have more REM sleep (that's the lighter sleep phase) than the female giraffes. And thanks to over 100 hours of careful observation, we’ve learned a lot about their sleep patterns, including individual differences influenced by age, sex, and life events. What we’ve found is pretty fascinating! For example, our boys have more REM sleep (that’s the lighter sleep phase) than the girls.
While we don’t have predators threatening giraffes at the zoo, the safety and well-being of the giraffes are top priority. Their sleep patterns are essential for their health and our dedicated team work hard to ensure they have an excellent environment to rest in, which is easier now that they've got brand-new facilities in their new Heart of Africa home. That means a lot of observation, study, and a commitment to making sure they have the best care.
Check out a video below of sleeping giraffes in their previous home.
Why it matters
Understanding giraffe sleep can help ensure that these magnificent creatures thrive, both in the wild and in human care. Sadly, giraffes in the wild face huge threats, with fewer than 2,000 Nubian giraffes left. This is why we’re working alongside the Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF) and the Ugandan Wildlife Authority (UWA) to protect giraffes in Uganda.
Thanks to the efforts of our team and partners, giraffes were successfully reintroduced to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve in Uganda, where their population is steadily increasing.
Join Run for Nature and run for giraffes
You can be part of the action and help protect giraffes and other endangered species. This year, we’re raising funds for giraffe conservation through Run for Nature, our charity race at Chester Zoo.
Join us to raise vital funds that will support giraffe conservation in Uganda and beyond. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just want to take part and help make a difference, your participation helps secure a brighter future for giraffes.
