A wildebeest in a grassy field, with other animals partially visible in the background.
A wildebeest with curled horns lying on sandy ground, surrounded by grass. Its eyes are partially closed, suggesting rest.
A wildebeest grazes on lush green grass, its head lowered. It has a shaggy mane and curved horns, standing on a grassy plain.

Black wildebeest

You can find our herd of black wildebeest over in the African Savannah.

Black wildebeestConnochaetes gnou

  • Habitat:

    Savannah south of Sahara

  • Habitat:

    Savannah south of Sahara

  • Habitat:

    Savannah south of Sahara

Black wildebeest

Native to southern Africa, black wildebeest inhabit opens plains, grasslands and Karoo shrublands in steep and mountainous regions.

They are herbivores, predominantly grazing on short grasses, however they will also feed on other herbs and shrubs, especially when grass is scarce.

Conservation

Back in the 19th century, black wildebeest were almost extinct due to hunting and their reputation of being pests. They are now protected in game reserves in their native southern Africa, and zoos worldwide have contributed towards the population.

However, they do still face the threat of hybridisation with the blue wildebeest, which can happen when the two species live on the same fenced land.

Interesting facts