A gnu (often pronounced “noo” or “guh-NOO”) is a large African antelope with curved horns, a shaggy mane, and a distinctive beard. Gnus are also called wildebeest, which means “wild beast” in Afrikaans.

These powerful animals are famous for their massive migrations across the plains of East Africa. Every year, over a million gnus travel together in enormous herds, crossing rivers filled with crocodiles and dodging lions and hyenas, all searching for fresh grass and water. These migrations are some of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth, with so many animals moving together that you can see the herd from an airplane.

Gnus might look awkward with their big heads and skinny legs, but they're built for survival. They can run up to 50 miles per hour to escape predators, and calves can stand and run within minutes of being born. Despite their tough appearance, gnus are prey animals, which means they spend much of their time alert and ready to flee.