WILDEBEEST, BLACK 

The Black Wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou) are also known as the White-tailed Gnu. It has a dark brown to black coat, a distinctive white tail, and a characteristic hump on its shoulders. Black Wildebeests are known for their stocky build, strong legs, and fast running speed. Known for their energetic, sometimes erratic behaviour often running in circles for no reason. 

Distribution: Endemic (native) to South Africa and now introduced to Namibia. 

Size: A large African antelope. 

Weight: 310 – 400lb / 140 – 180 kg

Shoulder Height: 42 – 48’’ / 1.06 – 1.22 m

Horns: Both males and females have forward curving horn that grow outwards, then up and back. The males' horns are thicker and more pronounced than the females. 

Habitat: They are typically found in open grasslands and plains, where they graze on short grasses.

Habits: Black Wildebeests are diurnal, most active during the early morning and late afternoon. They are social animals, living in herds that can range from small family groups. Males are territorial, especially during the breeding season, marking their area and engaging in displays of dominance. When threatened, Black Wildebeests can run at high speeds in a zigzag pattern to evade predators. They are also known for their lively behaviour, often seen jumping, kicking, and displaying erratic movements during social interactions.

Hunting Tips: Often found in open areas, so difficult to approach as they like to keep their distance. They will take off for no reason at all running in large circles. They can also be exceptionally dangerous when wounded and will fight to the bitter end so always approach with caution.     

Trophy Information

Good Horn Length: 21’’  

Record Book

SCI Min. : 72 

SCI Min. Bow : 63  

Rowland Ward Min. : 23 

World Record : 30 7/8 

SCI Measurement Method: 6  

Rowland Ward Measurement Method: 13-b 

Species & Subspecies Information

Species: 2. Black Wildebeest and Blue Wildebeest.   

Subspecies: None.