Our Species

Giraffe

Overview

Giraffes are the world’s tallest mammals.

They tower up to 5.5 metres with long necks and spindly legs. Giraffes are not antelopes but are occasionally hunted for their hides and as part of plains game packages. Nick Bowker Hunting offers ethical giraffe hunts using proper calibre and shot placement to ensure a quick, humane harvest. These gentle giants feed on leaves from acacia trees using their long tongues and can run up to 60 km/h despite their size. Giraffe hunts require careful stalking and a solid understanding of the animal’s vital zone due to their height.

Pricing & Packages

Trophy fee

From US $4000

For a giraffe bull or cow.

Combination hunts fee

From US $7000

Giraffe may be included in multi‑species safaris, adding variety to plains game hunts.

Cull hunts fee

POR

Occasionally offered at lower rates when herd reduction is necessary.

Hunting in South Africa

Giraffes inhabit savanna and open woodland.

They move in loose herds and feed high in the treetops. Hunters must approach quietly and take care not to alert the entire group. Nick Bowker Hunting guides use vehicles to locate giraffe herds from a distance, then stalk on foot using cover. Shots are typically taken from a rest due to the animal’s height and thick skin.

Trophy Criteria & Scoring

Giraffe trophies are valued for their large hides and unique ossicones (horn‑like structures).

The SCI scoring system treats giraffe as a non‑horned game, measuring skull length and circumference. Ossicones differ between sexes; bulls have thicker, bald ossicones due to fighting, while cows retain tufts of hair on their smaller ossicones.

Shot Placement & Caliber Recommendations

Shot placement on a giraffe requires aiming low and forward on the shoulder.

This would be approximately one third up the body. Because the heart sits lower than expected, a high shot may miss the vitals. A .375 calibre rifle is the minimum legal requirement. Many hunters choose .416 or .458 rifles with heavy solids to ensure deep penetration through thick muscle and bone.

Male vs Female

Bulls are larger, darker and have ossicones that are bald on top from fighting.

They also exhibit more prominent muscle development in the neck. Cows are slightly shorter and lighter in colour, with tufted ossicones and narrower faces.

MALE

FEMALE

Fascinating Facts

A giraffe’s heart weighs up to 12 kilograms (26 pounds) and must pump blood a long distance up the neck.

Giraffes sleep very little—often less than 30 minutes per day, usually in short naps.

Each giraffe’s coat pattern is unique, similar to human fingerprints.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hunt a Giraffe?

Approximately US $4 000, with discounts for management animals.

When can I hunt Giraffe?

They can be hunted year‑round, though cooler months are preferred.

Where should I aim when hunting a Giraffe?

Aim at the lower shoulder, one third up the body, to hit the heart and lungs.

What makes a good Giraffe trophy?

A large, unblemished hide and distinctive coat pattern are prized. Bulls have thicker, bald ossicones.

How do I distinguish male and female Giraffes?

Bulls are larger with bald ossicones, while cows are smaller with tufted ossicones.

Ready to Hunt?

Ready to plan your Giraffe hunt? Nick Bowker Hunting can help you design a safari that matches your goals and budget. Contact us to discuss dates, packages and any additional species you might like to pursue.