Springbuck – South Africa’s National Antelope
Quick facts about the springbuck
Scientific name: Antidorcas marsupialis
Weight: 30–50 kg (66–110 lbs)
Shoulder height: Around 75 cm
Horn length: 10–15 inches (both rams and ewes)
Habitat: Open plains, semi-desert, Karoo scrub
Activity: Diurnal – active during the day
Diet: Grazer and browser – grass, shrubs, succulents
Hunting methods: Walk-and-stalk, fair-chase, rifle or bow
Best season: March to October (dry months with open cover)
South Africa’s classic plains game species
The springbuck is one of the most recognisable antelope in Africa—and one of the most popular trophies on any plains game safari. Known for its distinctive white face, reddish-brown flanks, and elegant leap (pronking), the springbuck is both beautiful and challenging to hunt.
These agile antelope thrive in the semi-arid regions of South Africa’s Eastern Cape. At Wellfound Safaris, we pursue springbuck across wide-open plains and rocky Karoo slopes, where their sharp eyesight and speed provide a true fair-chase experience.
Where to hunt springbuck in the Eastern Cape
Our springbuck hunting takes place across more than 100,000 hectares of free-range land, much of it ideal for spotting game at distance before planning a careful stalk.
You’ll find springbuck in:
Open Karoo plains and short grasslands
Sparse bushveld near dry riverbeds
Rocky outcrops and low hills ideal for glassing
Their herding behaviour and open terrain make for exciting long-range stalks, often requiring patience, wind control, and accurate shooting.
Springbuck hunting methods: Rifle or bow, always on foot
All springbok hunts at Wellfound Safaris are done walk-and-stalk, whether you're hunting with a rifle or bow. This terrain rewards accurate shooting and a steady hand.
Rifle hunting:
Shooting distances: 120–250 yards
Ideal calibres: .243, .270, 6.5 Creedmoor
Shot placement: Just behind the shoulder for optimal heart-lung shot
Bowhunting springbuk:
Spot-and-stalk or blind setups near feeding zones
Recommended draw weight: 55–65 lbs
Broadheads: Fixed-blade or mechanical (1"+ cutting diameter)
Springbuck are quick to spook and tend to bunch tightly, making precision essential for ethical, one-shot success.
Springbok trophy size and field prep
A good springbuck trophy will have horns between 11 and 13 inches, with symmetry and mass adding value. At Wellfound Safaris, every trophy is handled with care—our team will assist with professional field preparation and skinning to preserve your mount for taxidermy.
Why hunt springbuck in South Africa?
National symbol: Iconic and deeply tied to South African identity
Challenging quarry: Alert, agile, and lightning-fast on open ground
Superb table fare: Springbok is one of the most prized wild meats
Photogenic trophy: Beautiful capes and horns make for striking shoulder mounts
Accessible for all skill levels: A great species for both first-time and seasoned hunters
Types of Springbuck in South Africa
While the common springbuck (Antidorcas marsupialis) is the most widespread and iconic, South Africa is also home to several colour variants that offer unique trophy opportunities. These colour phases are naturally occurring and ethically managed within private reserves and game areas.
1. Common Springbuck
Rust-coloured flanks, white underbelly, and distinctive dark facial stripe
Most widely hunted and often seen in large herds
Known for fast movement and elegant pronking
2. Black Springbuck
Dark chocolate to jet-black coat with white markings
A striking and rare trophy, especially against the Karoo landscape
Smaller herds and more selective hunting opportunities
3. White Springbuck
Cream to pure-white coat with faint or no facial markings
Eyes, nose, and hooves remain dark, helping distinguish it from albino
Highly photogenic and increasingly sought after
4. Copper Springbuck
Reddish-copper coat with less contrast between flanks and underparts
Unique colouring makes it a standout addition to any plains game collection
Selectively bred and sustainably managed
Each springbuck variant offers a different visual and hunting experience. At Wellfound Safaris, we can arrange hunts for select colour phases depending on your interests and conservation considerations. All hunts are fair-chase and conducted on foot, with the same ethical standards as our other plains game safaris.