Gemsbok

Gemsbok

The gemsbok or gemsbuck (Oryx gazella) is a large African antelope, of the Oryx genus. The name is derived from the Dutch name of the male chamois, Gemsbok. Although there are some superficial similarities in appearance (especially in the color of the face area), the chamois and the Oryx are not related.

Gemsbok live in herds of about 10-40 animals, which consist of a dominant male, a few non-dominant males, and females. They often live in association with zebras, gazelles or other antelopes. There are two types of gemsbok: a northern and southern variety. The northern gemsboks have black-fringed ears while the southern ones have longer horns and more rounded ears.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Gemsbok have an average shoulder height of four feet (One meter, 20 centimeters) and can weigh up to 450 pounds (200 kilograms). The female’s horns may be curved and have a wider spread, but the male’s are thicker and parallel. Male gemsbok have been known to gore attacking lions with their horns. Gemsbok are mainly desert-dwelling and do not depend on drinking to supply their physiological water needs.

STATUS

Due to their stunning good looks, Gemsbok are a prized trophy. As such, they have been extensively managed to maintain stable populations throughout their range.

WEAPONS USED

Gemsbok are a fairly large antelope, thick skinned and incredibly tough. .30 caliber rifles should be considered minimum for hunting these antelope. However, because they typically inhabit areas of wide open grassveldt as well as plains mixed with wooded cover, a long range, flat shooting rifle is recommended. At least a 30-06 or 7mm Winchester Magnum, preferably a .300 Winchester Magnum and a heavy, bonded or partition bullet will work. Any of the larger calibers with good optics are good choices.

For archery hunters, any bow capable of downing a whitetail will work. Pick your shot well, aim low and angle your cut on contact broadhead further forward into the chest cavity than with North American game and these beautiful and tough antelope will go down.