These odd-looking animals have high reproduction rate and despite being targeted by numerous African predators, their number in the wild is still high and stable. The Great Migration sees over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,00 zebra and a host of other antelope travelling cross country. They are the most abundant big-game species in the East African Savanna. Photo: Shutterstock. Interesting facts about wildebeest. The word wildebeest comes from the Afrikaans language and translates to wild beast. Male wildebeest are also known as "clowns of savanna" because of the weird behavior during mating season. Judi Davis 2 minutes read. They numbered about 250,000 in 1960 and are thought to number 1.5 million today. The most interesting fact about black wildebeest is their comeback from near extinction. While the black and blue wildebeests have steady population numbers, the Eastern white-bearded wildebeest has seen a … So, here you go- 15 Interesting Facts about the Great Wildebeest migration: 1. It is also commonly called the gnu - pronounced "new", and sometimes referred to as the "fool of the veld" or The Wildebeest (genus Connochaetes), also called a Gnu, is an ungulate mammal found in Southern Kenya, South Angola to north south Africa. Interestingly, the grazers stir up insects and rodents for the ostriches to eat, and they also help and alert the grazers about dangerous situations such as approaching lions. But some herds of blue wildebeest must journey long distances in search of food and breeding grounds. They will urinate and defecate to mark their breeding territory and to keep other males away. 04: Excellent Speed of zebras. Interesting Facts about Wildebeest . by GenesisAdmin | Oct 16, 2018 | Uncategorized. The wildebeest is the mascot of the GNU Project and the GNU operating system. By Lucille Sive . The 4) Wildebeest Calves Can Walk Minutes After Birth This stunning spectacle consists of over 1.5 million wildebeests (also called gnus), 200, 000 zebras, and a wide variety of other animals, including antelope, gazelle, and impala. The blue gnu, also called common wildebeest, has dark vertical stripes on the shoulders and back. Black wildebeests have bushy and dark-tipped manes that stick up from the back of the neck. The species’ historic range also included the open plains and grasslands of Lesotho and Swaziland. Just Fun Facts Copyright © 2021. Gnus, better known as wildebeests, come from the bovidae family, like goats and cattle. The name “wildebeest” is from the Afrikaner’s language meaning wild beast. Timing of migration is determined by weather conditions, but it usually takes place during the May and June. There are two species, black wildebeests and blue wildebeests. Wildebeest have an intimidating appearance. The blue wildebeest is native to eastern and southern Africa. February 2, 2020 Animals. Contrary to popular belief, the wildebeest migration has a competitor for duration. Both males and females have horns, but those of a mature male are larger overall, and thicker in particular. They numbered about 250,000 in 1960 and are thought to number 1.5 million today. The wildebeest is one of the few African antelopes to have extended its range in the last 50 years. Wildebeest looks like a close relative of a bovine because of its disproportional body. The wildebeest is the iconic antelope of the African plains, with a marvelous, rugged appearance, and unmistakable anvil-shaped head. Around 80–90 percent of blue wildebeest calves are born within a synchronized two-to three-week birthing window, usually at the start of the rains when there is plenty of fresh growth to enable females to produce milk. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Tumblr Pinterest WhatsApp Telegram Share via Email Print. Wild facts about wildebeest The might not be pretty but both wildebeest species are fascinating creatures. Find out some facts about wildebeest and use our wildebeest worksheet to record them. A low metabolism allows these antelopes to survive for much of the year without drinking. Amazing Facts About the Blue Wildebeest. The wildebeest development, which is likewise broadly alluded to as one of the Wonders of the World, makes a dynamic clockwise cycle of natural life development around the year. There are over 1.5 million wildebeests, 200,000 zebras, and a host of antelope traveling cross-country in the Great Migration. During migration, wildebeests travel between 500 and 1000 miles. Blue Wildebeest facts – The blue wildebeests is one of the famous wild animals in both the Serengeti national park of Tanzania and in Maasai Mara national park of Kenya which is one of the main attractions which bring in a lot of people all over the world and it is so amazing during the wildebeest migration event in the above parks. Calves (babies) are able to walk as soon as they are born. September 26, 2017. Black wildebeests were first discovered in the northern part of South Africa in the 1800s. The Wildebeest belongs to the animals known as antelope. 1. The wildebeest migration is typically determined by rainfall pattern. Main predators of wildebeest are lions, hyenas, cheetahs and African wild dogs. 5 Fascinating Facts About Gemsbok; 1. It has large, box-shaped head, and strongly built front part of the body. This is just one of many interesting facts about Kenya! It’s thought that the Serengeti stretches for up to 5,700 square miles. Wildebeest is also known as gnu. The Great Migration is the joint longest mammal migration on Earth. It can reach 8 feet in length, 4.5 feet in height and weight up to 600 pounds. This stunning spectacle consists of over 1.5 million wildebeests (also called gnus), 200, 000 zebras, and a wide variety of other animals, including antelope, gazelle, and impala. Another interesting facts is that they are one of the few African Antelopes to have extended in the last 50 years. They numbered about 250,000 in 1960 and are thought to number 1.5 million today. 0. In females, the horns are both shorter and narrower. These two Wildebeest species are uniquely adapted to life surrounded by dangerous predators. Safari Fashion- What To Wear On Tanzania Safari Tours May 12, 2019. The horn placement of the two species is different also, with the black wildebeests horns protruding first forwards, before dropping down and back up, while the blues horns extend to the sides, then down and up again. There are around 1.5 million living in the Serengeti alone! Due to harsh climate in Africa, wildebeest is well known for its seasonal migration. The sheer numbers overwhelm predators, which can make little impact on the overall wildebeest population. It was first described in 1780 by Eberhard August Wilhelm von Zimmermann. The black wildebeest, also called the white-tailed gnu, weighs 242 to 346 lbs. There are two species – blue and black. Wildebeest is a grazer. They have large backs, curved horns, striped bodies, fluffy manes and bushy beards. Blue wildebeests weigh 260 to 595 lbs. 2nd April 2019. These large, brown herbivores move in vast herds across the plains of Africa, always on the look out for food and water. When the Dutch settled in South Africa, they named this animal “wildebeest,” meaning “wild beast,” due to its untamed appearance and vigorous nature. For protection, zebra harems often graze together with other grazers like the wildebeest. Females give birth standing up in the center of the herd, to one large, well formed calf. It is a member of the genus Connochaetes and family Bovidae. What's the Difference Between a Wild Animal and Domestic Animal? African Animals facts photos and videos..Africa is a wonderland for animal lovers, and a schoolroom for anyone who wants to learn about nature, beauty and the rhythm of life. The calves rely only on their mothers’ milk in the first 10 days when they start trying grass. No two years are ever the same. Both sexes have strong horns that curve forward, resembling hooks. Hindquarters are slender, just like in other antelopes. Here are some interesting facts you might not know about this amazing natural event and its star—the wildebeest. They’re classified into two species, black wildebeest and blue wildebeest, each with distinct facets of living habits and behavior. Not all populations of wildebeests migrate. Although they can be very dangerous when stampeding, they are a vital part of the African ecosystem. Wildebeest live in massive herds of sometimes thousands, and many Now you know what Wildebeest are, here are some interesting facts about them. The Great Migration is the largest in the world. Gemsbok can kill lions. In February, the month with the highest calving rate, around 8,000 wildebeest are born each day. Granted that the wildebeest are the majority of individuals, the animals travel together because of their symbiotic relationships. ANYONE who has watched our wildebeest frolic in the veld or take a mudbath at their favourite waterhole will agree these strange creatures are the clowns of the African savannah. Bizarrely proportioned, and seemingly anonymous in their large herds, the wildebeest is often overlooked, and sometimes even maligned as unattractive and unintelligent. Plan Your Ideal Tanzania Safari Tours To The Most Unspoiled And Striking Katavi National Park April 18, 2019. 27. are as follows: Fact 1 - Definition: The Wildebeest is also called the Gnu. Here are 10 fascinating Great Migration facts you might not know: 1. Most black wildebeest are actually permanent residence throughout their range. Here are some wild facts and figures about these not-so-pretty but absolutely lovable plains dwellers. Browse more videos. Below are some little known truths about the same. The common name of this species "gnu" is said to have originated from the Hottentot name t'gnu, which refers to the repeated calls of "ge-nu" made by the male during the mating season. Wildebeest are antelopes and belong to the bovidae family […] It is a year round cycle. Wildebeests live in central, eastern and southern parts of Africa. 2. They can be between 4 and 5 feet tall and weigh as much as 600 pounds. Each year, nearly 2 million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle make a circular tour between the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of greener pastures. One of the most popular animals you’ll hopefully get to witness when visiting the Kruger National Park is the Wildebeest. The blue wildebeests have got a front-heavy profile, cow-like horns … Interesting Facts about Wildebeest . The Great Migration is among the Seven Wonders of Africa and involves the movement of about 2.5 million wildebeest zebras, antelopes, and other grazers. Listed below are few interesting facts about the Wildebeest Migration Cycle: Migration Is Driven By Rainfall Pattern. During breeding season male wildebeests attempt to establish territories and impress females by battling other males. There are two species, black wildebeests and blue wildebeests. Here’s to Horns – When a hungry lion is staring you down, it helps to look like you would make a tough meal to swallow. Copyright © 2021. They can be between 4 and 5 feet tall and weigh as much as 600 pounds. The blue wildebeest has a silvery blue hue to the coat, with black mane and tail. Social able quality is one of the interesting facts of zebra. Both males and females have curved horns. There are around 1.5 million living in the Serengeti alone! 1. Native Africans used the name “gnu,” … Read More: Top 10 interesting facts about tortoise. Wildebeest are antelopes and belong to the bovidae family […] This biological family includes cloven-hoofed animals that also participate in the great migration such as kudus, eland, sable, impala and gazelles. February 2, 2020 Animals. During mating season, breeding groups composed of around 150 animals will be created. They are very fast, agile, and powerful. A young blue wildebeest. March 6, 2018. The Wildebeest (genus Connochaetes), also called a Gnu, is an ungulate mammal found in Southern Kenya, South Angola to north south Africa. The males weigh more than the females. Mar 25, 2016 - Wildebeest is a lovely and can be dangerous animal. black wildebeest is actually primarily brown in color, with a flaxen A gemsbok’s straight, rapier-like horns can reach 120cm in length, and are longer and narrower in the female. Wildebeest can live up to 20 years in wild. (118 to 270 kilograms) and are about 4 feet (123 centimeters) in length, according to the University of Michigan's Animal Diversity Web (ADW). Calves will suckle during the first four months of their life. Between January and March, half a million wildebeest are born each year in the Serengeti. stands 4 to nearly 5 feet at the shoulder. The wildebeest (/ ˈ w ɪ l d ɪ b iː s t / WIL-dib-eest, / ˈ v ɪ l-/ VIL-, /-d ə b-/, plural wildebeest or wildebeests), also called the gnu (/ nj uː / NEW or / n uː / NOO), is an antelope in the genus Connochaetes.It belongs to the family Bovidae, which includes antelopes, cattle, goats, sheep, and other even-toed horned ungulates. Wildebeests have a long, rectangular-shaped head. 10 Fascinating Facts To Know about The Great Wildebeest Migration During Tanzania Adventure Safaris. Wildebeest live in large herds, composed of animals of both sex and their offspring. Great apes facts, photos and videos..Human beings did not evolve from chimpanzees, modern chimps and gorillas do not appear in the fossil records until much more recently than homo sapiens.. e-mail us at info@animalfactsencyclopedia.com, Copyright 2011 - 2019 by Jenise Alongi   Animal Facts Encyclopedia.com. Leave a comment in the box below. Here are some interesting facts to help bring you a little closer to this natural wonder of the world. in the animal kingdom. Female gives birth in the middle of the herd. Who Gnu? The zebra and the wildebeest are naturally good friends helping … the shoulder, while the blue wildebeest averages 300 to 600 pounds and Fun Facts for Kids. It can reach 8 feet in length, 4.5 feet in height and weight up to 600 pounds. They live in the plains and open woodlands in southern Africa. Interesting Facts About the Great Wildebeest Migration. The sheer numbers overwhelm predators, which can make little impact on the overall wildebeest population. Interesting facts about wildebeest. Around 20% of the park belongs to Kenya, with 80% residing in Tanzania. Few days after birth, babies can run with the rest of the herd. 1. Wildebeest looks like a close relative of a bovine because of its disproportional body. AppuSeries. It Is The Largest Overland Migration In The World This spectacular wild-show in which millions of wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles participate occurs every year in the East Africa region. Wildebeest grow to 1.15 to 1.40 metres (at the shoulder) and they weigh between 150 and 250 kilograms when they are fully grown. There are two species of wildebeest: the black wildebeest and the blue wildebeest. 7 Wild Wildebeest Facts. 2. The blue wildebeests are in five different species and it can be differentiated by their size plus colouration. are as follows: Fact 1 - Definition: The Wildebeest is also called the Gnu. It eats mainly short grass. They are widespread in many areas of Africa. Gnus are the largest of all antelopes. There are two species of wildebeest, the black wildebeest, and the far more common blue wildebeest. Bulls will charge eachother, bellow, and kneel down and thrash horns in a dramatic display. The wildebeest (/ ˈ w ɪ l d ɪ b iː s t / WIL-dib-eest, / ˈ v ɪ l-/ VIL-, /-d ə b-/, plural wildebeest or wildebeests), also called the gnu (/ nj uː / NEW or / n uː / NOO), is an antelope in the genus Connochaetes.It belongs to the family Bovidae, which includes antelopes, cattle, goats, sheep, and other even-toed horned ungulates. Wildebeest, or gnus, (pronounced 'news'), are noisy. The last thing a lion wants is to sustain an injury during a hunt. 8. Wildebeest are energetic, active and playful; A wildebeest can run at 50 miles per hour; There are 2 species of wildebeest, blue wildebeest and black wildebeest; Wildebeest have a lifespan of up to 20 years; Both male and female wildebeests have horns; Some 2 million wildebeest take part in … Around 80–90 percent of blue wildebeest calves are born within a synchronized two-to three-week birthing window, usually at the start of the rains when there is plenty of fresh growth to enable females to produce milk. Blog Home All Categories Posted In Specialist Holidays . The wildebeest is the iconic antelope of the African plains, with a marvelous, rugged appearance, and unmistakable anvil-shaped head. Here are some interesting facts to help bring you a little closer to this natural wonder of the world. 80% of calves are born during the same 2-3 week period, just before rainy season. Wildebeest are strange-looking creatures that look like thin, muscular cows. The males weigh more than the … Maasai Mara is also home to the Maasai people, known for their jumping dance and warrior skills. Amazingly, about 80 percent of the females calve within the same 2- to 3- week period, creating a glut for predators and thus enabling more calves to survive the crucial first few weeks. One of the animals you absolutely cannot miss when you go on safari in East Africa is the wildebeest. One of the toughest creatures in Africa, the wildebeest is always on the move, grazing day and night, napping occasionally, while some keep watch. Our unusual and interesting facts about Wildebeest, trivia and information, including some useful statistics about animals will fascinate everyone from kids and children to adults. (see below) Wildebeest can live for more than 20 years. More than 60 languages are spoken in the country. The following are some interesting facts about the ecosystem. They will move toward the west when sources of food and water become scarce. Wildebeest are large African antelopes and belong to the Bovidae family. Interesting Wildebeest Facts. Life in herd provides protection against predators. Fun Facts about Wildebeest..... Report. The great wildebeest migration does not occur only between July and October. Follow. Another name for the wildebeest is gnu (pronounced “new”). Wildebeest are the clowns of the savannah. the "poor man's Buffalo". Around 1.5 million gnus live in different regions of the planet. Whenever the herbivorous go, lions other predators follow suit. Migrations are one of the most fascinating phenomena that can be seen in Africa. Interesting Wildebeest Facts: Wildebeest is one of the largest antelopes. The blue wildebeest is categorized as an antelope which belongs to the sub family Alcelaphinae as well as the topi, the blesbok, and the hartebeest. 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