Why Giraffes Sleep So Little

Giraffes only sleep about 30 minutes a day. That's less time than it takes you

to watch a sitcom. These towering animals take quick power naps that last just a few minutes at

a time. They sleep standing up most of the time because lying down makes them vulnerable

to predators. When they do lie down, they fold their long legs underneath

their bodies and rest their heads on their rumps. Baby giraffes are even more sleep

deprived than adults. They need to stay alert to survive in the wild. A giraffe's heart

has to pump blood all the way up that six foot neck to reach the brain, which requires tremendous

energy. This constant effort means they need to stay awake to keep eating and