Sitatunga hunting in Tanzania

East African Sitatunga sometimes referred to as “Marshbuck” are closely related to a Nyala and a Bushbuck. Their coloration, size and horn shape are very similar to a Nyala. As is the case with Nyala the males are greyish- brown and the females are reddish-chocolate brown. Both sexes have a few vertical white stripes across their backs and only the males have horns. Sitatunga are only found in the swamplands of Western Tanzania. This swamp dwelling antelope, with long splayed hooves adapted for walking in muddy and aquatic habitats. They are even able to walk across islands of floating vegetation. If disturbed they will dive into the water and disappear with just their nostrils showing above the water. They are best hunted from a “machan”. A machan is an elevated blind built with locally available material (sticks and reeds) in a high stand or tree, overlooking the swamp. Sitatunga are best hunted in the early morning or late afternoon when they may venture out in the open from the papyrus reedbeds to feed along the edge of the dense vegetation. In some instances, they may be hunted from a boat, which is silently propelled towards the animal using a long pole. Classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN, no special export permits are required. A prepaid minimum of a 21 day hunting license must be prearranged before hunting this species.