New Study Reveals Giraffes' Long Necks Evolved for Foraging, Not Mating

Research shows female giraffes have proportionally longer necks, supporting the theory that nutritional needs drove neck evolution.

The study challenges the 'necks-for-sex' hypothesis, which suggested male competition influenced neck length.
Researchers found that female giraffes have longer necks relative to their body size compared to males.
Male giraffes have wider necks and longer forelegs, likely aiding in combat and mating.
The findings emphasize the importance of preserving giraffes' natural habitats for their survival.
The study utilized thousands of photos of wild and captive giraffes to analyze body proportions.