Giraffes are often thought of as mute animals, labeled as the “silent giants.” However, recent studies have debunked the myth. Giraffes can make noise and are more vocal than previously thought.

Does a Giraffe’s Neck Make Them Silent?

The larynx, or voice box, houses the vocal folds responsible for sound production. Unlike many other mammals, giraffes possess a well-developed laryngeal structure, suggesting that they have the capacity for vocalization. However, the mechanics of producing sound are where the challenges arise.

The giraffe’s neck measures up to six feet in length. This introduces biomechanical hurdles as air must travel far, from the lungs to the vocal folds. The velocity and pressure of the airflow falls by the time it reaches the vocal apparatus, making it difficult for sound production.

How Do Giraffe’s Communicate?

Giraffes have alternative methods of communication that do not rely heavily on vocal sounds or noise. Their interactions are often mediated through visual cues, such as body postures, neck movements, and subtle gestures.

However, giraffes can and do produce a range of audible sounds:

• Grunts and Snorts – Giraffes emit low-pitched grunts and snorts, particularly when they are alarmed or feel threatened. These sounds serve as signals to other members of the herd, alerting them to potential dangers. The grunt is a short, guttural sound, while the snort is forceful expulsion of air through the nostrils.
• Hisses – When confronted with a threat, giraffes may hiss as a warning. This sound is produced by exhaling sharply through their nostrils, intended to deter predators or rivals. The hiss is often accompanied by aggressive body language, such as neck swinging or leg stomping.
• Moans and Grumbles – In moments of discomfort or frustration, giraffes can produce soft moans and grumbles. These sounds are generally subtle and serve as expressions of mild distress or irritation. For example, a giraffe may moan when being approached too closely by other animals, signaling a desire for space.
• Hums – In 2015, researchers discoved giraffes make humming sounds exclusively at night. These low-frequency sounds can travel long distances, facilitating communication between giraffes that are spread out across large areas. Note that these hums have a frequency of 92Hz, which is audible to humans.