The giraffe is the tallest animal on earth growing up to 17 feet in height. The largest ever recorded was 20 feet tall. The giraffe's social structure is not strong with bulls moving between groups. During the mating season you can see them sparing by throwing their necks and heads against each other (they do stay attached). They will defend themselves against their primary predator, the lion, with their hooves. They have, in fact, been known to kill a lion with a sharp downward thrust. They remain though a favorite food of this predator.