Klipspringer hunting in Zimbabwe

Klipspringer, Africa’s goat-like antelope has rubbery hooves which enables them to cover some of the most treacherous mountainous rocky ground. Safari Club International classifies them as one of the Pygmy Antelope group of species, also known as the “Tiny Ten”. This small brownish coloured animal with black speckles has a thick, quill-like coat that protects it from injury when bumping against rocks, whilst hoping and jumping across this rocky terrain. They are found across most of the country, from the rocky mountains of the Matobo Hills to the escarpment overlooking the Zambezi Valley. They are often found in pairs or small family groups. The males are territorial and will establish their territories using scent-marking. Klipspringers may be very difficult to see among their rocky habitat as their colouring provides the perfect camouflage when amongst the rocks. They are often seen standing motionless on high rocks or the skyline. They are curious and may watch an approaching hunting party but once they take flight they can cover ground very quickly over the broken rocky terrain and steep rock faces. Klipspringer is classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN and no special hunting permits are required.