The magnificent white springbok often mixes with large herds of black springbok and Kalahari springbok, which presents a unique challenge. Even the most experienced South African and international plains game hunters. The white springbok is one of the most common South African antelopes, and so iconic that the national rugby team was named after it. As with the black and Kalahari springbok species, the white springbok has a distinctive chocolate stripe across its body. This stripe separates the pure white belly from the off-white back.
Female white springbok have magnificently golden-colored, rimmed horns that are long and thin, and sweep backward. Males have thicker horns that are also rimmed, but they sweep backward in a bell-shaped curve ending sharp tips. Due to the distinctive differences between the Kalahari, black, and white springbok species, most hunters opt to hunt for one of each species on hunting trips with Tinashe.
The springbok has a plume on its back, which features a scent gland. This gland opens up for about two minutes when the animal dies. The scent gland emits a sweet aroma similar to that of cotton candy. Sometimes, the gland may open up when he shows off to the females by leaping stiff-legged into the air.
White springbok are usually found on the open plains in arid areas of South Africa.
Due to the distinctive differences between black, white and common springbok, many hunters opt for one of each during their hunting trips
| Scientific Name: | Antidorcas Marsupialis |
| Gestation Period: | 5-6 months |
| Male Weight: | 41 kg |
| Female Weight: | 37 kg |
| Length: | 120 - 150 cm |
| Horn Length: | 35 - 50 cm |
White springbok hunting offers a unique challenge. When the animals feel threatened, they usually bunch up into tight herds with high numbers, making it hard to discern the animal you want to stalk among the great numbers. Since both sexes have horns, that makes it harder still.
Due to the white springbok’s smaller frame and incredible eyesight, the average shooting distance can easily exceed 300 yards. White springbok herds are reluctant to allow a hunter’s approach when they feel threatened. Your white springbok hunting trip will likely include some walking, stalking and crawling.
Professional hunters recommend flat shooting 25 caliber (243, .270, 30-06, 6.5x55, 7mm Rem mag, 308, or 300 Magnums) rifles with 120 grain bullets that travel at approximately 2 600 feet per second for a white springbok hunting trips. Suitable ammunition includes premium grade Sierra, Barnes TTSX, and Federal Premium. Bring a scope with 3-9 variable or 6 power to cater to the long shots.
The name of the springbok (jumping antelope) comes from its tendency to jump into the air when running away.
Accurate shot placement is pivotal to a successful white springbok hunting safari. Due to the challenging nature of the white springbok hunt, it is definitely a good idea to listen to your professional hunter’s tips and suggestions.
We typically recommend the broadside shot for springbok. Place your shot directly on the animal’s shoulder, in line with the upper front leg. Aim approximately one-third up from the bottom of the brisket and directly inside the brown line on the flanks which separates the belly and back.
A quartering to- or quartering away shot is placed at the point which bisects the angle of the front legs. Aim approximately one third up the flank, and into of the shoulder facing toward you.
Avoid the head shot when the white springbok is facing you directly. Rather place the shot where the throat meets the chest.
White Springbok Placement Shot
Broadside
White Springbok Placement Shot
Frontal
