Details
Connochaetes taurinus
A large African antelope of open savannas, with a heavy head, high shoulders, and curved horns. It is famous for forming large moving herds.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
Blue wildebeest use savannas, short-grass plains, and open areas with seasonal water. Their distribution closely follows grass growth and water availability.
The coat is gray brown to bluish, with dark facial stripes and a mane. Both sexes carry horns that sweep outward and then inward.
They live in herds and may migrate seasonally where landscapes remain open. Movements respond to rainfall, new grass, water, and predator pressure.
They are primarily grazers of short grasses. After rains they seek fresh growth, and in dry seasons they concentrate near remaining water and pasture.
Males defend temporary territories during the rut. Calving is often synchronized, and calves stand quickly to move with the herd.
The species is globally Least Concern, but fences, land conversion, water changes, and blocked migration routes can affect regional populations.
