Black Wildebeest
Connochaetes gnou
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Artiodactyla · Bovidae
About
The black wildebeest or white-tailed gnu is one of the two closely related wildebeest species. It is a member of the genus Connochaetes and family Bovidae. It was first described in 1780 by Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann. The black wildebeest is typically 1.7–2.2 m in head-and-body length, and the typical weight is 110–180 kg (240–400 lb). Males stand about 1.11–1.21 m at the shoulder, while the height of the females is 1.06–1.16 m. The black wildebeest is characterised by its white, long, horse-like tail. It also has a dark brown to black coat and long, dark-coloured hair between its forelegs and under its belly.
Fun Fact
Both sexes have strong horns that curve forward, resembling hooks, which are up to 78 cm (31 in) long.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Inhabits open plains, grasslands, and karoo shrublands in both steep, mountainous regions and lower, undulating hills.
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
20 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance