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Blue wildebeest, Connochaetes taurinus
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Blue wildebeest, Connochaetes taurinus
Blue wildebeest, Connochaetes taurinus (brindled gnoo, Catoplebas gorgon). Handcoloured engraving by H. Kearsley after an illustration by Charles Hamilton Smith of a specimen in the Missionary Society Museum, London, from Edward Griffiths The Animal Kingdom by the Baron Cuvier, London, Whittaker, 1827
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Media ID 23171354
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Baron Connochaetes Cuvier Gorgon Griffith Hamilton Ruminantia Taurinus Wildebeest Brindled Smith
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This hand-colored engraving depicts a Blue Wildebeest, Connochaetes taurinus, also known as the Brindled Gnu or Catoplebas Gorgon. The image is based on a specimen housed in the Missionary Society Museum in London during the early 19th century. The illustration was created by the renowned English natural history artist, Charles Hamilton Smith, and later engraved by H. Kearsley for Edward Griffiths' publication of "The Animal Kingdom" by the Baron Cuvier in 1827. The Blue Wildebeest is the largest species of antelope in Africa, with males reaching up to 1.2 meters in length and weighing between 270 to 450 kilograms. They are characterized by their distinctive blue-black coat, which turns silver during the dry season. The Blue Wildebeest is a ruminant, meaning it chews its cud and has a four-chambered stomach. Blue Wildebeest are found in large herds across the African savannas and woodlands, and they are a keystone species in many ecosystems. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the grasslands by grazing and trampling the vegetation, creating open spaces for other animals to thrive. The Blue Wildebeest is also known for its distinctive call, which sounds like a barking dog. They are herbivores, feeding on a variety of vegetation, including grasses, leaves, and shoots. They are also known to form mixed-species herds with other antelope species, such as zebras and gazelles, for protection against predators. This beautiful engraving is a testament to the intricate detail and accuracy of natural history illustrations during the 19th century. It provides a glimpse into the past, showcasing the Blue Wildebeest as it once was, and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures and their habitats for future generations to enjoy.
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