How to identify blue wildebeest
- Blue-grey coat with dark vertical bands
- Broad muzzle and beard
- Horns sweep out sideways before curving up
Do not identify from one clue alone.
Distance, age, sex, season and light can change an animal’s appearance. Combine several visible features and keep “not sure” as a valid answer.
Behaviour and habitat
What you may notice
Social and often seen in herds
What you may notice
Bulls may hold small territories
What you may notice
Frequently mixes with zebra on open grazing
Where it fits
Short-grass plains, open woodland and savanna.
What can it be confused with?
Black wildebeest are darker, have forward-curving horns and a conspicuous cream-white tail.
View it responsibly
Allow the herd to choose its direction. Do not block a road crossing or position your vehicle between adults and calves.