Bushbuck Hunting in South Africa

LIFE SPAN: 15 YEARS

WEIGHT: 99-176 LBS

LENGTH: 3.3 -5 FT

HEIGHT: 35 INCH

SCI MIN SCORE: 33”

Hunting the bushbuck provides a captivating and challenging experience in the Savannah bushveld of South Africa.

Bushbuck Overview:

The bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) is a medium-sized antelope species native to various regions in South Africa. Recognizable for its reddish-brown coat, white spots, and spiral horns, hunting the bushbuck is a sought-after pursuit among avid hunters.

Habitat and Range:

Bushbucks are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including dense forests, woodlands, and savannas. Their range spans from South Africa to Ethiopia and westward to Senegal, covering a diverse array of ecosystems.

Trophy Characteristics:

Bushbucks are prized for their distinctive spiral horns, and trophy quality is often judged by horn length and symmetry. Experienced guides can assist hunters in evaluating the trophy potential of an individual bushbuck ram. Safari Club International acknowledges a minimum trophy qualification total score of 33 inches.

Hunting Methods:

Common hunting methods for bushbuck include stalking and still-hunting techniques. Bushbucks are known for their secretive and elusive nature, making them challenging to approach. Knowledgeable guides, familiar with bushbuck behavior, enhance the chances of a successful hunt.

Rifle Choice:

Choose a firearm suitable for medium-sized game hunting. A scoped rifle with a caliber appropriate for bushbuck hunting, such as .243 or .270, is commonly used. Patient stalking is essential for a successful bushbuck hunt.

Bushbuck shot placement