Giraffes’ spots help them stay cool and hidden in the African heat. “It’s nature’s air-conditioning,” says Sheena Harvey.
Each patch has a large blood vessel surrounded by tiny capillaries. These widen to release heat like radiator panels.
The giraffe isn’t fully covered in these vessels because the patches also act as camouflage in dappled bushland.
“The mottled pattern works perfectly for both cooling and concealment,” Harvey explains.
The dark color of the spots remains less certain. They’re rich in melanin, which likely prevents sunburn on short-haired skin.
Short hair lets heat escape easily, helping the giraffe survive under the fierce African sun.
