Kings Wildebeest are a game ranch bred colour variant caused by a colour mutation originating from a Blue Wildebeest (Brindled Gnu). Up until 2013 they were solely bred to increase the numbers before being made available for hunting. Their appearance is similar to a Blue Wildebeest, both sexes have horns, a cream coloured forehead and a cream coloured patch on their stomachs. Trophy hunting opportunities are limited as the emphasis for many landowners is still on breeding rather than hunting. Trophy prices are high due to demand but will no doubt decline as more and more trophies become available to the hunting market. They can currently be hunted in isolated pockets across most provinces except KwaZulu-Natal. Their behavioural traits remain the same as Blue Wildebeest and are known to charge when wounded. They are tough animals to bring down and always take care when approaching a downed Wildebeest. Not being a recognised species, these animals are still exported as Blue Wildebeest and classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN, no special hunting permits are required.