In addition a few sons were sent to American colleges. Theodore Godet Heyliger (1790-1845) from a lithograph of Miss Maude Pandt â The founder of the Heyliger family in the West Indies was Guilliam Heyliger (died circa 1734) who evidently was on St. Eustatius by about 1670 when he married Anna Ryckwaert.n addition a few sons were sent to American colleges. Theodore Godet Heyliger (1790-1845) from a lithograph of Miss Maude Pandt â The founder of the Heyliger family in the West Indies was Guilliam Heyliger (died circa 1734) who evidently was on St. Eustatius by about 1670 when he married Anna Ryckwaert.
Giraffes reach sexual maturity at 3-4 years of age, although, in the wild, males may not breed until ages 6 or 7, due to a system of hierarchy among bulls. Breeding can occur at any time of the year. Gestation is usually 13-15 months.
Giraffes are divided into several subspecies depending on their geographic location, color and coat pattern. The number of subspecies is still a topic of debate among scientists and ranges from 6 to 9. The giraffes at the Philadelphia Zoo are reticulated giraffes which are identified by their rich brown, geometric spots on a white background Other subspecies include Masai and Rothschild's.