Sable hunting in Namibia

Sable Antelope are one of the most impressive animals in all of Africa, with a somewhat pricey trophy fee but nonetheless a sought after species. Its striking jet black features, long curved horns, with a black and white face mask make it a most desirable hunting species. Sables have a preference for long grass which can make hunting difficult when all you can see are the tips of their horns as they move through the grass. They are generally encountered in wooded clearings and seasonally waterlogged wetlands. Sable are well represented as a free range species in the Caprivi and now also a popular game ranched animal in the northern and central regions of Namibia. If managed correctly as a game farming species their number may increase quite rapidly. Sable bulls can be quite aggressive to one another when reaching maturity and will fight to the death if unable to escape from the dominant bull. They will even fight through game fences if able to see each other. Sable are classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN and no special hunting permits are required. Although not hunted for their meat, Sable venison is a very sought after delicacy.