Wildebeest

Hello! My name is Wildebeest, but some call me a gnu. I live on the big, grassy plains of Africa where the sun is always warm. If you saw me, you would notice my shaggy beard that tickles my chin and my very strong shoulders that help me run fast. I also have special curved horns on my head that point to the sides. My home is wide and open, with lots of room to run and play with my family.

I remember the day I was born like it was yesterday. The world was so bright and new! Just a few minutes after I arrived, I felt my legs getting wobbly, and then—poof!—I was standing all by myself. Soon after that, I was even running. It was so important for me to learn quickly so I could keep up with my mom. I am part of a very big family called a herd. There are so many of us, and I always felt safe and cozy being surrounded by everyone. We look out for each other, always moving together like a giant, flowing river.

Our biggest adventure is something we do every single year. It’s called the Great Migration! When the grass in one place gets all eaten up, my whole herd travels a very, very long way to find fresh, green grass. We know where to go because we follow the rains. People have been watching my family make this amazing trip for a long time. A scientist named William John Burchell was the first person to write about our journey way back in 1823! We don't make this trip alone, either. Our good friends, the zebras, come with us! Sometimes we have to be very brave, especially when we cross big, rushing rivers, but we stay together and help each other get to the other side.

My long journey is a very important job. As my herd and I walk for miles and miles, our hooves stomp on the ground and mix up the soil. This helps new seeds find a place to grow. When we munch on the tall grass, we are like lawnmowers, keeping it short and healthy so it can grow back even stronger. Even our poop is helpful! It gives the ground special food, called nutrients, to help all the plants. Every animal on the savanna has a special role, and I am proud of mine. My life is part of a big, wonderful circle, and the great journey continues every single year.