The western white-bearded wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus mearnsi) also known as Mearn's white-bearded wildebeest, Mearn's wildebeest,[1] Serengeti white-bearded wildebeest, or the Serengeti wildebeest,[2] is a subspecies of the blue wildebeest being the smallest, and lightest subspecies of the species. It is one of the only subspecies of the blue wildebeest to have a sustainable population in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, with over one million individuals.[3]
The western white-bearded wildebeest on average reaches 1.30-1.42 m (4.26-4.65 feet) tall, and weighs 180-225 kg (396-496 pounds) at its maximum weight. It has a long white beards, black front face, and a darker colored body, smaller horns, and a swaying dark black tail. It is 50 kg (110 pounds) lighter than the main subspecies, Connochaetes taurinus taurinus, and 10 cm (3.93 inches) shorter.[3]
The western white-bearded wildebeest is native to northwestern Tanzania, and southwestern Kenya.[2] [3]In Tanzania, its populations cover Serengeti National Park, being a very common sight there.[3]
Its habitat is mostly made up of savanna, grassland, and some scattered dry forests. The western white-bearded wildebeest range is entirely within the tropics zone.[2][3][4]
The western white-bearded wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus mearnsi) also known as Mearn's white-bearded wildebeest, Mearn's wildebeest, Serengeti white-bearded wildebeest, or the Serengeti wildebeest, is a subspecies of the blue wildebeest being the smallest, and lightest subspecies of the species. It is one of the only subspecies of the blue wildebeest to have a sustainable population in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, with over one million individuals.
