While black wildebeest prefer short-grass habitats, blue wildebeest prefer tall-grass habitats. This difference in habitat preference allows the two species to reduce competition for resources. When resources are abundant, the two species may mix freely. However, when resources are scarce, they may form separate herds to reduce competition.
In addition to habitat preferences, black wildebeest and blue wildebeest also differ in their social structures. Black wildebeest live in large, mixed herds consisting of both males and females. Blue wildebeest, on the other hand, form smaller, bachelor herds consisting of young males. During the mating season, blue wildebeest bulls will leave their bachelor herds to join female herds.
In areas where black wildebeest and blue wildebeest coexist, the two species may interact with each other in various ways. They may share the same grazing areas, and they may even form temporary mixed herds. However, they typically maintain their own distinct social groups.
Overall, black wildebeest and blue wildebeest can coexist in mixed herds under certain circumstances. These circumstances include sufficient resources and a mosaic of short-grass and tall-grass habitats. Despite their similarities, these two species maintain their own distinct social groups and habitat preferences.