Springbok, Painted

The Painted Springbok is a rare variation/mutation in colour from the Common Springbok. Side By Side Safaris was among the first safari providers in South Africa to offer hunting for this rare variant.

The Springbok is considered by many hunters to be the most beautiful South African gazelle and it is selected as the national animal of South Africa. Its name means ‘jumping buck’ - an accurate description of its response when it gets scared and flees. Springbok is legendary as it is considered the tastiest of all African gazelles.

It is a sociable herd animal and belongs on the dry semi-desert and open grassland, including the Karoo desert. It feeds primarily on grass and is not dependent on water, but will drink if water is available from ponds or natural sources.

Trophy assessment can be difficult since both males and females carry relatively small horns. The horns of males though, are heavier and longer than the ones of females.

Because of its phenomenal eyesight and its habitat in the desert, the hunt is made difficult and can provide major challenges.

There is often a need for flat-shooting calibres, as long shots often occur in the open terrain. The choice of rifle calibre for this wild species should often be a 6.5x55. Another effective rifle calibre for this purpose will be a .270.

 
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Facts

  • NAME: PAINTED SPRINGBOK

  • SCIENTIFIC NAME: ANTIDORCAS MARSUPIALIS

  • WEIGHT MALE: 41 KG

  • WEIGHT FEMALE: 37 KG

  • SHOULDER HEIGHT MALE: 75 CM

  • SHOULDER HEIGHT FEMALE: 75 CM

  • MATING SEASON: THROUGHOUT THE YEAR