hartebeest etymology

Etymology:

  • Afrikaans: "hartebeest"
  • Dutch: "hartbeest"

Meaning and Origin:

The term "hartebeest" is a compound word derived from two Afrikaans/Dutch terms:

  • "hart": meaning "deer" or "antelope"
  • "beest": meaning "beast" or "animal"

Therefore, the literal meaning of "hartebeest" is "deer-beast" or "antelope-animal." The term was originally used by Dutch settlers in Southern Africa to refer to a group of large antelopes found in the region.

Hartebeest Species:

There are several species of hartebeests, all belonging to the genus Alcelaphus:

  • Common hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus): The most widespread species, found in sub-Saharan Africa.
  • Tora hartebeest (Alcelaphus tora): Found in East Africa.
  • Western hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus major): Occurs in the western regions of Africa.
  • Coke's hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus cokii): Found in Kenya and Tanzania.
  • Jackson's hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus jacksoni): Inhabits the highlands of Kenya.

Hartebeests are medium-sized antelopes known for their shaggy coats, long horns, and distinctive facial markings. They are herbivores that live in herds and are often found in open grasslands and savannas.

hartebeest relate terms

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