Megalotragus (SciiFii)

The giant hartebeest (Megalotragus priscus) is a species of very large African alcelaphine that originally lived from the Pliocene to early Holocene and was once extinct, but has since been brought back from extinction by SciiFii and reintroduced throughout Africa to help boost biodiversity. It resembles the common hartebeests, characterized by extreme elongation, and the fusion and posterior of the horn pedicels. However, it differs in larger body size. It's postcrania and proportions are largely reminiscent of wildebeest: for instance, the neck vertebrae from the giant hartebeest are robust and compact, supporting a robust, muscular neck that is held horizontally, much like black wildebeests. The giant hartebeest is the largest bovids in the tribe Alcelaphini, reaching a shoulder height of 4.6 feet (1.4 meters) tall on average. As gregarious animals, giant hartebeests form herds of 20 to 300 individuals. They are very alert and non-aggressive. They are primarily grazers, with their diets consisting mainly of grasses. Mating in giant hartebeest takes place throughout the year with one or two peaks, and depends upon the local factors. Both males and females reach sexual maturity at one to two years of age. Gestation is eight to nine months long, after which a single calf is born. Births usually peak in the dry season. The lifespan is 12 to 15 years. The conservation status of the giant hartebeest is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts and the giant hartebeest's wide natural range.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii