South Africa | 1970 | 2 Cents | Wildebeest

 


Wildebeest




Wildebeests, or gnus, are African antelopes of the genus Connochaetes, comprising two species: the blue and the black wildebeest. Though closely related, they diverged about a million years ago, with the blue species retaining ancestral traits and the black adapting to southern grasslands, especially in coloration and horn shape. Blue wildebeests are abundant in East Africa and undertake major annual migrations, whereas black wildebeests are mainly nomadic. Both breed at the end of the rainy season, and although calves quickly become mobile, some fall prey to predators. Wildebeests often graze alongside zebras and remain alert to warnings from other animals. Despite conflicts with livestock farmers and some illegal hunting, their populations are generally stable, aided by protection in parks and private reserves, and both species are classified by the IUCN as of least concern.

 


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