KLIPSPRINGER - Oreotragus oreotragus

Ballerinas of the bush, the klipspringer is one of the most distinct of the small or pygmy antelope due to its habitation of rocky mountain areas and distinct rubber-pad like hooves and tracks.

habits
Klipspringer are usually seen perching on rock outcrops similar to medieval statues with their golden-blackish coats glistening in the sun. They are extremely agile climbers and "rock-hoppers" living off leaves and fruits.

They are usually found in pairs protecting a limited territory with the female being larger than the male.

They have unique course hollow fibrous hair which acts as a protection barrier against falls and bumps whilst "rock-hopping".

Although klipspringer are more active around early morning and late evening they can be encountered at all times, especially when walking along ravines and near rocky outcrops. The best areas are the mountainous areas of South Africa along the Drakensberg. One should take care with the trophy once shot as their hair easily falls out after death.

hunting tips - the calibre
They are best hunted with a smaller calibre with solids as their skin is very flimsy and the hair easily falls out after death.

hunting tips - the trophy
Horns are judged by comparing their length above the ears with a minimum requirement of at least half and inch over the tips of the ears.

hunting tips - where
They are widespread throughout Africa with the most common hunting countries being South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania.