The Blue wildebeest stands out from other antelope species thanks to its cow-like horns and prominent shoulders. This creature’s head is long and broad, like a muzzle.
Massive herds of blue wildebeest travel the African continent together during migration. Silvery blue highlights in their fur give these antelope their common name, despite the fact that their actual coat colour ranges from grey to brown.
Its common name, “brindled gnu,” comes from the black stripes on its front feet. Its long tail, the tip of its mane, and the front of its face are all black. Long and black or white in colour, depending on the subspecies, their beards are a distinguishing feature.
Males of this species are significantly larger than females, a phenomenon known as sexual dimorphism.
This species’ native habitat is found throughout southern and eastern Africa. From Kenya to eastern Namibia and even as far south as the Orange River in South Africa, you can see blue wildebeest.
Acacia savannahs and plains with quickly re-growing grasses and moderate levels of soil moisture are ideal environments for these animals. However, the blue wildebeest could also be found in places like wide woodland floodplains or thick shrubs.
The blue wildebeest is one of the most social antelope species and forms the largest migrating herds. This is largely due to the weather that occurs within their territory, which causes food and water to become scarce during certain times of the year.
The Serengeti-Masai Mara (Kenya/Tanzania) is home to one of the world’s biggest concentrations of large blue wildebeest, which are always on the move to locate fresh water and adequate vegetation.
On the other hand, there are members of this species that choose to remain in the same territory all year round, where they form tight-knit social units comprising one dominant male and as many as ten adult females and their offspring. Among these herds, the females establish a closed hierarchy.
Blue wildebeest nap during the hottest parts of the day, and are most active in the mornings and afternoons.
The blue wildebeest is exceedingly cautious and hard to approach, making for an interesting and tough hunting experience. Approaching on foot in areas where they might be resting is the best means of getting within range of a trophy.
When wounded, blue wildebeest will circle the same spot repeatedly. Due to the animal’s extraordinary toughness, it is recommended that long shots be avoided. Choose a .300 or a 7mm with 200-220 grain bullets. If you’re going after blue wildebeest in the bushveld, you may want to upgrade your calibre and bullet weight.
Superior trophies have large bases separated by about an inch. The ideal shape for horns is an outward curl followed by a curving upward motion.
Generally, a blue wildebeest only needs a well-placed shot in the shoulder region to be taken down. Don’t forget to factor in the mane and pronounced shoulder hump when aiming. Many hunters have accidentally shot an animal in the head, provoking a vengeful and potentially lethal response.
A third of the way up the animal’s body, from behind the front leg, is where its heart is located. If your initial shot at a blue wildebeest doesn’t hit the target, proceed with caution, as these animals have been known to charge at their pursuers.
We provide top-notch blue wildebeest hunts in great locations that are vast, publicly owned wildlife reserves. These huge lands have been inhabited by herds of animals for many years. In these vast areas, hunting blue wildebeest is entirely free-range.
In addition to offering top-notch trophy quality, we take great delight in offering a fully authentic hunting experience. Our skilled hunters will aid in taking you on a memorable hunt that you will recall for years to come.
