Bushbuck

Bushbuck

  • Average weight male: 42 kg
  • Average weight female: 28 kg
  • Shoulder height male: 79 cm
  • Shoulder height female: 69 cm
  • Mating season: April, May

The bushbuck is the smallest member of the spiral-horned antelope. He is medium-sized and dark reddish-brown with white spots on the rump, against the legs, at the base of the neck, and just below the throat. Hunting the bushbuck can be a real challenge, as he is shy and extremely elusive. For the most part solitary, he prefers riverine forest and dense thickets. He will stay near to water sources, as he must drink on a daily basis. Primarily a browser, he feeds during the night or early morning and late afternoon on leaves, grass, branches, flowers and fruit.

Weighing in at between 80 to 140 pounds, only the males carry horns and mature bucks are considerably larger and usually darker in color than the female of the species. When spooked, his alarm signal is a loud, hoarse, dog-like bark.

Shot placement is extremely important. From any angle, place your shot so as to penetrate and pass through the chest cavity. You do not want to wound this little guy – he can be extremely dangerous. A wounded or cornered bushbuck is apt to be very aggressive and will not hesitate to charge. If your wounded bushbuck escapes to dense cover, which he will certainly try to do, be very cautious in your pursuit. Allow ample time for your bullet to do its work and if possible send a dog into the bush to find him.

Recommended caliber: .243, .270, 7mm, .308, 30-06