Hunting Vaal Rhebuck – Grey in South Africa

IDENTIFICATION: The Vaal Rhebuck have a long, thin neck with very long pointed upright ears. The head is dominated by larger than usual eyes and big rubber-like black nose. The body is covered by a grey fur like coat, similar to that of a jack-rabbit. Under parts are white in colour. The horns are straight and stand upright. Only the males carry horns.

HABITAT: Rocky Mountains usually above 6000 feet, mountainous slopes and plateaus with sufficient grass and a few shrubs and trees. Utilizes a more exposed habitat than the Mountain Reedbuck. They are independent of water.

BREEDING: 1 calf is born after gestation period of 7-8months (238 days). Majority of young are born between November and January.

DIET: The Vaal Rhebuck grazes with short resting periods and rests for 3 hours during the hottest part of the day.

CHARACTERISTICS: Vaal Rhebuck are considered as the most challenging South African antelope to hunt. This wonderful species occurs on high ground; hunters must be prepared to be patient, walk great distances, and at times make the above average long shot.

Not all hunters have this species in their collection and many hunters have often expressed their disappointment of not having hunted this species in their younger years when getting up and down mountains was much easier.

The trophy quality of a Vaal Rhebuck is determined by the overall length of the horn.