black wildebeest

The black wildebeest, also known as the white-tailed gnu (C. gnou), is a species of antelope belonging to the genus Connochaetes. It is a smaller animal than the common wildebeest, weighing between 110–147 kg (240–323 pounds) and standing 106–121 cm (42–48 inches) tall. This mammal is dark brown to black with a distinctive white tail, a prominent beard, and an upright mane.1

Black wildebeests were once abundant herbivores in the South African Highveld and Karoo but were hunted nearly to extinction in the late 19th century. Conservation efforts have led to a recovery, with populations numbering around 20,000 by the end of the 20th century, though most are now found on private ranches.1