"We implement our international obligations to protect endangered wild animals, and we have always honoured our international obligations, " China's foreign ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu told reporters as the auction opened.

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Then in 1979, the Leslie-Melvilles opened the Giraffe Centre, a sanctuary to protect the endangered animals, distinctive for their five horns, tall stature they can reach up to 20 feet and white legs.

FORBES: Outlandish Outposts: Giraffe Manor in Kenya