Hunting Bontebok in South Africa

IDENTIFICATION: The bontebok and the smaller blesbok are distinct subspecies of Damaliscus dorcas. Both males and females have horns but the ewe’s horns are more slender than those of the ram. The bontebok was brought perilously close to extinction, but is now protected in private and state reserves.

HABITAT: Grasslands of Highveld and coastal plains.

BREEDING: 1 calf is born usually from September-February, the gestation period is 8-8.5 months (240 days).

DIET: It is purely a grazer.

CHARACTERISTICS: The ram which is territorial remains in its home ranges throughout the year. The bontebok has a limited geographical range; it is confined to the south-western Cape.

This species is striking in appearance, showing a distinctive blaze on the face.