Red hartebeest hunting in South Africa

A strikingly reddish-fawn colour, this medium to large size antelope is also known as the Cape Hartebeest. Both sexes have heavily ringed heart-shaped horns that curl backwards earning it the nickname of “the Harley Davidson of the antelope world”. The Red Hartebeest prefers open grasslands and is well adapted to the arid savannah regions of South Africa. Through reintroduction programs, they are now widely distributed throughout South Africa on both high fenced and low stock fenced properties. Trophy wise, good quality animals are available throughout the country but look most at home in the drier western regions of the Northern Cape, Free State and Karoo. Equally at home on the steep mountain slopes, these agile animals are one of Africa’s fastest antelopes. They are water independent and will drink when available but are drawn to salt and mineral licks. Being an inquisitive animal they often make the fatal mistake of stopping to look back once disturbed, allowing for a long shot. Classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN, no special hunting permits are required. Their meat is highly underrated and makes for some of the best tasting venison available.