Waterbuck

waterbuck

The Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus) is an antelope found in Western, Central Africa, East Africa and Southern Africa.

Waterbuck are found in scrub and savanna areas near water where they eat grass. Despite its name, the waterbuck does not spend much time in the water, but will take refuge there to escape predators. Waterbuck are diurnal. Females gather in herds of between two and six hundred individuals. Males keep territories of around three hundred acres during their prime. They usually lose their territories before the age of ten.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Waterbuck stand up to 50 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 330 to 500 pounds. Their coats are reddish brown in color and become progressively darker with age; they have a white ‘bib’ under their throats and a white ring on their rumps surrounding their tails. The waterproofing secretions of the waterbuck’s sweat glands produces an unpleasant odor in its meat, unless the animal is skinned carefully. According to African myth the meat of the waterbuck is not edible, but this is untrue – whilst not especially tasty, waterbuck venison is safe to eat. The long spiral structured horns, found only in males, sweep back and up, reaching as long as 40 inches.

STATUS

Because of their oily coat and the ease with which the meat can become tainted, Waterbuck have little value as a meat animal, thus are usually safe from meat-hunters and poachers. Their primary value is for sport hunting and the only threat to their existence is habitat encroachment.

WEAPONS USED

Waterbuck are very tough animals, capable of going a long way with with a badly placed shot. When wounded, Waterbuck can be very aggressive and care must be taken when approaching a downed animal.

Because of this toughness, a medium to heavy caliber like a .300 Win. Mag. or .375 H & H Mag. should be used.

For archery hunters, any bow capable of downing larger animals like elk will work. Most Waterbuck will be taken near waterholes simply due to the difficulty of getting within bow range. To take one by walk & stalk is a real achievement.