Giraffes play an important role in their ecosystem by warning other animals of impending danger from predators and eating leaves that are too high up for other herbivores to consume. Giraffes grow to be between 14 and 18 feet tall. Giraffes are the tallest land animal on Earth. Each giraffe has unique spots on its fur and a blue-black tongue that helps it reach leaves that are very high up. The color of its tongue may help it avoid sunburn while eating. Giraffes are hunted by animals like crocodiles and lions in their habitat and defend themselves by kicking their predators with their powerful legs.