*Large Antelope with heavier front, than hind quarters
*Body is a Golden/Yellow Colour, giving rise to the name “Golden” Gnu
*”Gnu” refers to the bulking sound of the animal
Distinct characteristics
(Not a subspecies, but a colour variant of the Southern Blue Wildebeest)
Weight
*Bull: 210 – 260kg
*Cow: 170 – 200kg
Length at the shoulder
*Bull: 130 – 150cm
*Cow: 122 – 135cm
Longevity
*Bull: 16 years
*Cow: 18 years
Sexual maturity
*Bull: 36 months
*Cow: 18 – 27 months
Pregnancy Period
255 days
Calving interval
10 – 18 months
Calves Wean
8 months
Gender Ratio
1 Bull for 1.2 Cows
Mating Ratio
1 Bull for 2-3 Cows
Re-establishment: Smallest viable Population Size
3 Bulls for 8 Cows
Trophy
*Both sexes bear well
developed, smooth horns that grow from thickened bosses on the head
*They extend horizontally, side-ways and slightly downwards and then
turn in an upwards curve towards the ends, with the tips projected
almost vertical.
*The horns of cows are thinner, lighter in colour and have smaller bosses than that of the bulls.
*Horn development is relative rapid and trophy status can be reached after 3 years.
