Kruger National Park Wildebeest

Kruger National Park gnu often graze on open plains in herds of about 30, along with zebras and impala, and in bushy savannah.

You're bound to have a couple of sightings on your visit. Look for them at waterholes too because they need a long drink every day or two. The park has built some watering holes for them to make sure they have enough water.

Baby gnus are born with a light brown colour, like the colour of a lion. As they grow, their colour becomes darker.

New born babies are able to run with the herd less than 2 hours after being born! They need to do this to protect themselves against predators. They're a popular choice on the dinner menu for:

• Cheetahs
• Crocodiles
• Hyenas
• Leopards
• Lions
• Wild Dogs

It's common for these animals to lie down in the heat of the day under the shade of large trees or shrubs. The rest of the time, they're likely to be grazing, even after the sun has set.

If you go on a night game drive in Kruger National Park, you may see a gnu herd. Some of them will be sleeping and others will be taking their turn to stand guard on the lookout for predators.