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Gnu facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Gnu is a word with two main meanings. It can refer to a large animal from Africa, also known as a wildebeest. It can also mean GNU, which is a big project in the world of computers. This project helps create special computer programs that anyone can use freely.

The Amazing Wildebeest (Gnu Animal)

The wildebeest, or gnu, is a type of antelope that lives in Africa. These animals are famous for their strong bodies and unique looks. They have large heads, shaggy manes, and long tails. Both male and female wildebeest have curved horns.

Where Wildebeest Live

Wildebeest are found in the open grasslands of Africa. They prefer areas with plenty of grass to eat. You can see them in countries like Tanzania and Kenya. These animals often live in very large groups, sometimes with thousands of other wildebeest.

What Wildebeest Eat

Wildebeest are herbivores, meaning they only eat plants. Their main food is grass. They spend most of their day grazing, which means eating grass. They need a lot of food to keep their large bodies healthy and strong.

The Great Migration

One of the most incredible things about wildebeest is their annual migration. Every year, millions of wildebeest travel long distances. They move across the plains looking for fresh grass and water. This journey is one of the biggest animal migrations on Earth. It is a very dangerous trip, but it is important for their survival.

Wildebeest and Their Predators

Wildebeest are an important food source for many predators in Africa. Animals like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs often hunt them. Wildebeest try to protect themselves by staying in large herds. There is safety in numbers, as it makes it harder for predators to pick out one animal.

GNU: A Computer Project

GNU is a special project in the world of computers. It started in 1983. The main goal of the GNU project is to create computer software that is "free." This does not mean free of cost, but free in terms of freedom. It means users can run, study, change, and share the software.

What GNU Software Does

The GNU project has created many important parts of computer operating systems. An operating system is the main software that makes your computer work. Think of it like the brain of the computer. Many computers today use parts of the GNU software, often combined with something called the Linux kernel.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Ñus para niños

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