Giraffes are mammals which go through a reproduction process similar to other animals of the same class but with some characteristics particular to the species. Males are ready to mate when they are about seven years of age. However, having access to an available female usually requires a neck to neck fight with other bulls to earn the right to mate so not many can breed at such early age. Females are ready to mate when they are about four years of age. To find which of them are willing to mate, the males smell their urine.

Giraffes are similar to horses, donkeys and mules in their mating method. When the female is receptive and ready to mate, she stands still and allows the male to approach her. He mounts her from the rear, with both female and male facing in the same direction, and inserts his penis into her vagina. When mating ends, he withdraws and backs away.

My first reaction was one of bewilderment when I saw two male giraffes in an act that seemed like copulation. Well-documented studies have shown that several species engage in same-sex relationships. Male animals that engage in a sexual act with other males are usually teenagers as in the case of these two male giraffes. Young males usually do not get the chance to mate with females because the older, dominant males claim the right to breed. Species that are well known for this include giraffe, domesticated sheep, and cattle.

With their treelike height, thin legs and awkward locomotion, giraffes are the epitome of the word "gangly. Like people, giraffes mate year-round, though there's some indication that breeding times correspond with periods of high food availability. And then there are some that are on the lookout for a one-night stand. Similar to the way a person might walk around a party and chat with people to see who's interested, a male giraffe will move through a herd to find females that are receptive to mating, Bercovitch told Live Science. This sexual hunt involves the male prodding the rear ends of different females with his head.