The correct feeding of captive giraffe appears to be particularly problematic and traditionally, they have been termed as one of the most difficult ruminants to cater for (nutritionally) in the zoo. Recent research has demonstrated that some of the prevailing arguments underpinning dietary formulation to be incorrect. The most notable of these being the apparent need for elevated dietary protein and the provisioning of easily digestible carbohydrates (starches and sugars) that are thought to mimic the chemical composition of wild