-* The Antelopes of Mast Africa 



sometimes in captivity. This habit oj theirs is not to be 

 ascribed to the irritation caused by the parasites from 

 which, like so many other antelopes, they suffer. The 

 specimens which I have brought to Kurope have played 

 and gambolled about in this way, and an examination 

 of their bodies after death showed that they we- re 

 completely tree trom these parasites. I myself have 

 discovered a species of parasite which seems very common 

 on the white-bearded gnus, and which has not yet been 

 given any scientific designation. 



All keepers of Zoological (iardens are familiar with 

 the way these gnus jump about. The South African gnu 

 is most conspicuous of all in this respect it is a character- 

 istic not to be found amongst other ruminating animals. 

 J. G. Millais has given us an excellent picture of the 

 white-tailed gnu indulging in these gambols. This leaping 

 habit is connected to a great extent with the tights th.it 

 frequently take place between the bulls. 



(inns, as was found out in the early days in (. apt- 

 Colony, are to be classed among those animals which it 

 is not easv to overtake on horseback, their powers of 

 endurance and vitality being remarkable. In its tree 

 state the gnu always shows itself nervous in the presence 

 of man. If it were to make use of its strength and its 

 formidable horns, it would doubtless prove as dangerous, 

 it not more tlangerous, than the buffalo, especially .is it 

 has very good sight. It only shows its temper in captivity. 

 when it is a more dangerous animal to deal with than 

 most other antelopes. 



I was fortunate enough to be able to bring living 



4*7 



