African Cape or Red Hartebeest

Cape Hartebeest

(Alcelaphus buselaphus caama)

Current all time records
SCI: Score 80 5/8
Rowland Ward: Score 29 1/2 - Windhoek, Namibia - 1977

Description: The coloration of the hartebeest varies dramatically between subspecies, from light tan through bright rufous to deep maroon. In addition, there may be blackish marking on the head and legs, while the haunches and rump are generally lighter. The body slopes from the high shoulders down to the hindquarters, terminating with a black-tasseled tail. The legs are proportionately long and built for speed. The head is extremely elongated and narrow, a shape emphasized by the high placement of the eyes and the high horn pedicel. The strongly ridged horns are found in both sexes, growing 45-70 cm / 1.5-2.3 feet long. Showing considerable variation, they generally curve out sideways, then forwards, and finally inwards and backwards, with the sharp tips facing the rear.

Other Common Names: Red Hartebeest

Size:

Range: Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa; year around.

Natural History: The hartebeest, like many antelope, is primarily diurnal, grazing in the early morning and late afternoon, and resting in a shaded area during the hottest part of the day. During feeding periods, a sentry watches for potential sources of danger, and can often be seen standing on a termite mound in order to increase the range of visibility. When fleeing, the herd runs in single file, and can reach speeds of up to 80 kmph / 48 mph. At 3-4 years of age, males attempt to hold a territory. Marked with dung piles, these defended regions average 31 hectares in area, and are generally taken over by another male after 4-5 years. Females and males alike are generally non-aggressive, although both sexes will fight vigorously in defense of their offspring or territory. Population densities average 1.4 animals per square kilometer.

Hunting Characteristics: