How do giraffes feed on tall trees?

Giraffes have long necks and specialized tongues, which allow them to reach leaves high up in trees, particularly acacia trees. Their tongues can be up to 45 centimeters (18 inches) long and are prehensile, meaning they can grasp and strip leaves from branches. Giraffes also have thick lips and tough mouths that help them deal with the thorns on trees, which they can eat without injury. Their height, combined with their ability to feed from tall trees, allows giraffes to access a food source that many other herbivores cannot.