How it Works

1. Photograph a giraffe
2. Submit photo
3. Researcher verification
4. Matching process

Take a photo of a giraffe

Each giraffe can be identified by its unique spot pattern, similar to a human fingerprint. Take a photo of both sides of a giraffe if possible, but at least of the right side, that clearly shows the body and neck pattern (click here for example pictures). This pattern can then be matched to a giraffe already in the database or the giraffe will be added as a new entry.

Submit your photo

Make sure to enter when and where the photo was taken, and add any other information you may have (e.g. species, sex, group size).

Researcher verification

When you submit a photo, a local researcher will review the information you submitted is correct. Once your photo has been reviewed, you will be notified by email.

Matching process

Once verified, the photo and associated data will be run through the database using matching algorithms. These algorithms are like facial recognition software for animal patterns and will determine if your photo should be added as a new entry or can be matched to an existing giraffe in the database.

Our Contributors

Nadezhda Pavlenya Saint Petersburg University

MSc student Saint Petersburg University, lateral behavior of giraffe. The aim of the research is to find out if giraffes have a preference for the right or left leg when they stand in splay posture for drinking

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Latest Animal Encounters

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2025-06-18 15:32 / Borana

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Why GiraffeSpotter?

Why GiraffeSpotter? While giraffe populations are showing signs of recovery, giraffe are still in serious trouble and their threats differ throughout the continent. There are four distinct species of giraffe and their numbers vary significantly from only just over 7,000 Northern to almost 69,000 Southern giraffe. Every individual giraffe counts. GiraffeSpotter uses photo identification to track individual giraffe and power long-term conservation. Spot a giraffe, save a species.

Learn more about GiraffeSpotter