Chobe bushbuck hunting offers an exceptional adventure for hunters seeking to pursue this elusive, medium-sized antelope in the wilds of Southern Africa. Named for hunter and author Roualeyn Gordon-Cumming, who first described it in 1850, the Chobe bushbuck is recognized for its striking reddish-brown coat and varying patterns of spots and stripes. A highly adaptable species, the Chobe bushbuck thrives in diverse habitats, making it a sought-after trophy for hunters who value both the challenge and beauty of this elusive animal. It is one of the most elusive animals of Africa.
The Chobe bushbuck is a medium-sized antelope, standing at a shoulder height of 28-30 inches (71-76 cm) and weighing between 90-120 pounds (41-55 kg). The coat of the Chobe bushbuck varies greatly, with some individuals displaying a harness pattern, while others have fewer spots and a more drab appearance. The characteristic reddish-brown color is often complemented by lighter underparts, making them well-camouflaged in the thick bush they inhabit. The males possess impressive horns, typically short and spiral-shaped, contributing to their appeal among hunters.
The Chobe bushbuck is an elusive and solitary creature, often found in dense woodland and bush areas. It prefers to stay near water sources such as rivers and streams, which makes the Chobe River basin a prime area for hunting. These bushbucks are known for their shyness and keen senses, which often make them a challenging target for hunters. They are mostly nocturnal, with activity peaking during the cooler evening and early morning hours.
Chobe bushbuck hunting presents a unique challenge due to the animal’s stealth and ability to blend seamlessly into its environment. Hunting the Chobe bushbuck typically requires patience and perseverance, as the hunter must be prepared to wait for extended periods in dense foliage or along riverbanks. The lack of natural cover in the terrain demands long shots, often requiring the use of shooting sticks for precision. Due to the dense bush and varied terrain, hunters must be ready for physically demanding conditions, with frequent wading through water and thick underbrush.
Hunts are typically conducted in the countries where the Chobe bushbuck is found, including Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and parts of Angola. The hunt often takes place in regions near rivers and streams, where the bushbucks are known to graze. Experienced guides are essential, as they know the local landscape and the behavior of the bushbuck, allowing them to direct hunters to the best spots for a successful hunt. The hunt’s duration varies, but it often involves multiple days in the field to track and observe the animal’s movements.
The Chobe bushbuck is found across a wide range of Southern Africa, with populations spread across several countries. The species is commonly found in Angola, northern Namibia (including the Caprivi Strip), Botswana, Zambia, Katanga Province in southeastern Congo (K), Malawi, Zimbabwe’s Zambezi River drainage, and parts of northern Mozambique. The distribution of the Chobe bushbuck is often linked to dense bush areas near water sources, which are essential to its habitat.
The Chobe River basin, in particular, offers prime hunting grounds, as it is home to a large population of these bushbucks. Their presence in the riverine areas of Botswana and Zambia, especially around the Chobe National Park and the Zambezi River, makes for an exciting and rewarding hunting experience.
