ry little
is known. Both species are larger than the wildebeest, individuals of
either being nearly five feet in height, while the common gnoo is scarce
four.

The three kinds are quite distinct, and never herd together, though each
of them is often found in company with other animals. All three are
peculiar to the continent of Africa, and are not found elsewhere.

The "brindled gnoo" (_Catoblepas gorgon_) is the other species that
inhabits the South of Africa. It is known among the hunters and
colonists as "blauw wildebeest" (blue wild-ox). It is of a bluish
colour--hence the name, and "brindled," or striped along the sides. Its
habits are very similar to those of the common gnoo, but it is
altogether a heavier and duller animal, and still more eccentric and
ungainly in its form.

The third species (_Catoblepas taurina_) is the "ko-koon" of the
natives. It approaches nearer to the brindled gnoo in form and habits;
but as it is not found except in the more central and less-travelled
portions of Africa, less is known about it than either of the others.
It is, however, of the same kind; and the three species, differing
widely from any other animals known, are entitled to form a distinct and
separate genus.

They have hitherto generally been classed with the antelopes, though for
what reason it is hard to tell. They have far less affinity with the
antelope than with the ox; and the everyday observations of the hunter
and frontier boor have guided them to a similar conclusion--as their
name for these animals (wild-oxen) would imply. Observation of this
class is usually worth far more than the "speculations" of the
closet-naturalist.

The gnoo has long been the favourite food of the frontier farmer and
hunter. Its beef is well flavoured, and the veal of a gnoo-calf is
quite a delicacy. The hide is manufactured into harness and straps of
different sorts; and the long silky tail is an article of commerce.
Around every frontier farm-house large piles of gnoo and springbok horns
may be seen--the remains of animals that have been captured in the
chase.

"Jaging de wildebeest" (hunting the gnoo) is a favourite pastime of the
young boors. Large herds of these animals are sometimes driven into
valleys, where they are hemmed in, and shot down at will. They can also
be lured within range, by exhibiting a red handkerchief or any piece of
red cloth--to which colour they have a strong aversion. They may be
tamed and