Have you seen someone trying to touch their nose with their tongue? Most people can’t do it, and those who can often amaze others. Have you also seen science fiction movies where alien beings or superheroes have the special ability to stretch their tongues to do various things? This concept seems like pure fiction, but did you know that there are living beings on Earth with some of the longest tongues in the world?
Which animal has a tongue so long it can clean its own ears?
Giraffes and okapis are two animals with some of the longest tongues in the world, capable of cleaning their ears!
A long tongue doesn’t only help with ear-cleaning; these animals use it for many different purposes, depending on the tongue’s reach and length.
Giraffes Use Their Long Tongue to Clean Their Ears
Yes, you heard that right! Giraffes use their long tongues to clean their ears. Their tongues can extend up to 20 inches. Whenever they feel an itch or need to remove dust, they use their tongues to maintain ear hygiene.
Their long tongues have additional functions, like helping them grab leaves from tall trees and protecting against the spines on branches.
Apart from ear-cleaning, giraffes can also use their tongues to clean their eyes and noses.
Okapis Use Their Long Tongues to Clean Their Ears
Like giraffes, okapis also have long tongues, which can extend up to 18 inches. Okapis use their long, dark-colored tongues—typically blue, dark purple, or even blackish—to clean their ears, eyes, and noses.
Conclusion
We see that some animals, like giraffes and okapis, have unique capabilities to clean their ears with their long tongues. This fascinating adaptation shows just how resourceful animals can be!
