Blue Wildebeest
Connochaetes taurinus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Artiodactyla · Bovidae
About
The blue wildebeest, also called the common wildebeest, white-bearded gnu or brindled gnu, is a large antelope and one of the two species of wildebeest. It is placed in the genus Connochaetes and family Bovidae, and has a close taxonomic relationship with the black wildebeest. The blue wildebeest is known to have five subspecies. This broad-shouldered antelope has a muscular, front-heavy appearance, with a distinctive, robust muzzle. Young blue wildebeest are born tawny brown, and begin to take on their adult coloration at the age of 2 months. The adults' hues range from a deep slate or bluish-gray to light gray or even grayish-brown. Both sexes possess a pair of large curved horns.
Fun Fact
Blue wildebeest migrate in herds of up to 1.5 million animals across the Serengeti — the largest terrestrial mammal migration on Earth — covering nearly 3,000 km annually in a circular route.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Grasslands and savannas
Diet
Herbivore
Lifespan
18-20 years
Threats
- Invasive Species
- Agricultural Conversion