Close to extinction in 1900 because of loss of habitat to agricultural development and indiscriminate hunting, the bontebok now survives only on special preserves and ranches. Bontebok is a Dutch word, with bont meaning parti-colored and bok meaning a buck.

The short, glossy coat is purplish or reddish brown that is lighter on the back with white lower legs and rump patch. Males are highly territorial and mark their ranges with dung heaps, on which they often rest. These territories vary from 2 ½ to 6 ½ acres in size. Marking of plant stalks with secretions from the large scent glands below their eyes is seen in both sexes.  Males spend a great deal of time standing near a central dung-heap, attracting females to their harem and driving off rival males. A male generally remains on his territory year round. Conflicts between neighboring males over boundaries are rare, primarily ritualized parallel displays with snorting and foot stomping.  Small herds of females and their young circulate through several individual territories during the breeding season.
Their lyre shaped horns begin growing within a few months of birth and reach full size at approximately three years.  Calves can stand in 5-10 minutes, walk in 15-20 minutes and do not hide but have a very strong instinct to follow their mothers. Although weaned at 4 months, the calves usually stay with their mothers until 10 months old. Female bontebok do not adopt orphan calves; They will only nurse their own calves.

The bontebok travels and feeds during the morning and late afternoon. The middle of the day is spent resting in sheltered areas. When water is available, bontebok drink at least once a day, although they can survive without water for several days. Unlike most antelope, the bontebok is not a good jumper, with a 4 ½’ tall fence being tall enough to enclose a herd. However, they are adept at crawling under objects.

Bontebok

Damaliscus pygargus dorcas