About the Common Reedbuck
General Information About the Common Reedbuck
The common reedbuck is a medium-sized, water-dependent antelope found throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Recognizable by their tan-to-greyish-brown coats, white underbellies, and a distinct black glandular patch beneath each ear, they are expertly adapted for hiding in tall, dense grasslands and floodplains.
These antelopes are predominantly active during the cooler hours of the day—specifically at dawn, dusk, and even nocturnally. During the heat of the day, they remain bedded down in thick vegetation for cover. Socially, they typically live in pairs or small family units, though mature males are highly territorial. When threatened, they often stand motionless, relying on camouflage, before eventually fleeing with a distinct rocking-horse gait that prominently displays the white underside of their tail.
Description of the Common Reedbuck
- Size & Weight: 31 to 35 inches at the shoulder. Males (rams) are larger, weighing 150 to 154 lbs., while females (ewes) weigh about 105 to 112 lbs.
- Horns: Only males carry horns. They are strongly ridged at the base, emerge in a “V” shape, and curve gracefully forward and upward, measuring 12 to 18 inches in length.
- Coat & Markings: The silky coat varies from yellowish-tan to greyish-brown, often fading to lighter tan or greyish-white on the neck and chest. They have white rings around the eyes, white chins, and white fur lining the inside of their legs.
- Distinctive Features: A characteristic black, hairless, glandular patch sits just below each ear. They also feature a short, highly bushy tail with a brilliant, fluffy white underside
Suitable Weapons
Any long range cartridge from .243 win up to any of the .30 caliber rifles will work great.
Hunting Area
Best Locations for Common Reedbuck
- South Africa: The KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Midlands and Zululand are famous for high-quality, free-range common reedbuck. The Eastern Cape and Free State provinces are also prime areas, especially near dams and river floodplains.
- Mozambique: Particularly in the Niassa region and areas like the Gorongosa National Park surroundings.
- Tanzania: Found in the western (Moyowosi) and central (Kizigo/Rungwa) regions.
- Namibia: Restricted to the North-Eastern territory, particularly in the Caprivi Strip.
Trophy Expectations
A trophy size common reedbuck will have horns from 12 to 14 inches long. A common reedbuck with horns 15 inches or more is an exceptional specimen.
Cost to Hunt
The trophy fee for a common reedbuck is from $800 to $2,400 depending on the country and outfitter.
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