Duiker
The "diving buck" of African woodlands
Shoulder Height
17" (43 cm)
Weight
25-35 lbs
SCI Minimum
11" (Rifle) / 9" (Bow)
Rowland Ward Min
4½"
Identification
Small, hump-backed antelope with short spike horns. Grizzled gray-brown coat with distinctive arched back posture.
Habitat
Dense bush, thickets, and woodland edges. Common duiker prefers savanna while forest species inhabit dense vegetation.
Trophy Standards
SCI minimum 11" for rifle, 9" for bow. Rowland Ward minimum 4½". World record common duiker is 7⅛".
Did You Know?
The name "duiker" comes from the Afrikaans word for "diver," referring to their habit of diving into dense vegetation when alarmed. There are 22 duiker species in Africa, but only the common (gray) duiker is widely hunted, as most forest duikers are difficult to locate in dense rainforest habitat.
Introduction to Duiker Hunting
The duiker represents one of Africa's most challenging small antelope to hunt. These shy, primarily nocturnal animals have evolved exceptional survival instincts that make them elusive quarry. The common (gray) duiker is the most widely distributed and frequently hunted of the 22 duiker species, found throughout sub-Saharan Africa wherever suitable cover exists.
Duikers are solitary or live in pairs, establishing small territories that they defend year-round. Their name aptly describes their primary defense mechanism—diving headfirst into thick vegetation at the first sign of danger. This behavior, combined with their small size and preference for dense cover, makes them considerably more difficult to hunt than their numbers might suggest.
Hunting Considerations
Duiker hunting requires patience and quick reflexes. These animals are most active during early morning and late evening, often feeding along the edges of thickets where they can quickly retreat to safety. Most successful duiker hunts are opportunistic, occurring while hunting other species. However, dedicated duiker hunting with experienced trackers and hounds can be highly productive.
The common duiker is remarkably adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats from semi-arid scrubland to moist woodland edges. They are browsers and frugivores, feeding on leaves, fruits, flowers, and occasionally insects and small animals. This varied diet means they can survive in areas where many other antelope cannot.
Conservation Status
The common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia) is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with stable populations across most of its range. However, many forest duiker species face significant pressure from habitat loss and bushmeat hunting. Sustainable hunting of common duiker on well-managed properties contributes to conservation by providing economic value to landowners who maintain suitable habitat.
Hunting Seasons by Region
South Africa
Common duiker can be hunted year-round in most South African provinces. Peak activity occurs during winter months (May-August) when vegetation is thinner and animals are more visible. The Eastern Cape, Limpopo, and Free State provinces offer excellent duiker populations.
Namibia
Hunting season runs from February through November. Duiker are found throughout the northern and central regions wherever adequate bush cover exists. The Waterberg Plateau region is particularly productive.
Zimbabwe
Season typically runs from April through October. Good populations exist in the eastern highlands and throughout the Save Valley Conservancy. Duiker often appear on dangerous game safaris as targets of opportunity.
Mozambique
April through November hunting season. Excellent duiker populations in the miombo woodlands of the Niassa Reserve and southern regions. Often encountered while hunting larger plains game.
Tanzania
July through December season. Common duiker are abundant throughout the hunting blocks, particularly in the Selous Game Reserve and western Tanzania. The country also offers opportunities for the rare blue duiker in coastal forests.
Zambia
May through November season. Strong populations in the Luangwa Valley and throughout the hunting concessions. Duiker are commonly seen while pursuing other species.
Hunting Methods
Walk and Stalk
The most common method involves slowly walking through suitable habitat during early morning or late afternoon. Focus on thicket edges, drainage lines, and areas where open ground meets dense cover. Move quietly and glass ahead frequently—duiker will often stand motionless watching before diving into cover.
Hunting with Dogs
In some areas, specialized dogs are used to locate and flush duiker from dense vegetation. This method can be highly effective but requires well-trained dogs and quick shooting. The duiker will typically run short distances before stopping to assess the situation, providing brief shooting opportunities.
Ambush/Blind Hunting
Setting up near known feeding areas, water sources, or well-used game trails can be productive. Duiker are creatures of habit and will use the same paths repeatedly. Early morning sits near fruiting trees or cultivated fields can provide excellent opportunities.
Opportunistic Hunting
Many duiker are taken while hunting other species. Stay alert at all times, particularly when moving through transitional habitat between open areas and thick bush. Keep a suitable firearm ready for quick shots.
Shot Placement
The small size of duiker demands precise shot placement. Aim for the heart/lung area, positioned just behind the front leg at approximately one-third of the body height from the bottom of the chest. Head shots are effective but should only be attempted at close range with a steady rest. Avoid rear-angling shots as the vital area is small and easily missed.
Remember that duiker have a habit of "ducking" at the shot, so aim slightly lower than you would for larger antelope. A wounded duiker can disappear into dense vegetation in seconds, making recovery extremely difficult.
Recommended Firearms
Rifles
Given the small target size, precision is paramount:
- .22 Hornet or .222 Remington: Excellent for dedicated duiker hunting, minimal meat damage
- .223 Remington: Popular choice, widely available ammunition
- .243 Winchester: Adequate but may cause excessive meat damage
- .308 Winchester or 30-06: Often used opportunistically with good shot placement
Many hunters use whatever rifle they have in hand, but lighter calibers are preferred for this small antelope.
Shotguns
In dense vegetation where dogs are used:
- 12 or 20 gauge with buckshot or SSG
- Improved cylinder or modified choke for close-range work
- Semi-auto or pump for quick follow-up shots
Bowhunting
Duiker are challenging but rewarding bow targets:
- Draw weight: 45-60 lbs minimum
- Broadheads: Fixed blade recommended for better penetration on small animals
- Arrows: Standard hunting arrows, consider slightly lighter for flatter trajectory
SCI minimum for bow is 9 inches.
Optics
- Rifle scope: Variable 2-7x or 3-9x, low light capability helpful for dawn/dusk hunting
- Binoculars: 8x32 or 10x42 for scanning thicket edges
Essential Gear
- Quiet, earth-toned clothing
- Soft-soled boots for silent movement
- Shooting sticks for quick setup
- Small daypack with water and essentials
Physical Preparation
Duiker hunting involves considerable walking through broken terrain. Focus on:
- Cardiovascular fitness for extended walks
- Leg strength for uneven terrain
- Practice moving quietly through vegetation
- Develop patience for long waits and slow stalking
Shooting Practice
The small vital area demands excellent marksmanship:
- Practice at small targets (4-6 inch circles) at 50-150 yards
- Train for quick mounting and shooting from standing positions
- Use shooting sticks extensively
- Practice low-light shooting as many opportunities come at dawn/dusk
- Work on moving targets if possible
Planning Your Hunt
- Duration: Often hunted opportunistically during 7-14 day plains game safaris
- Combo opportunities: Duiker are frequently included on plains game packages
- Success rates: Generally good when actively pursued, highly variable when opportunistic
- Best time: Early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active
Trophy Expectations
Horn length typically ranges from 3-5 inches, with exceptional specimens reaching 6+ inches. The Rowland Ward minimum is 4½ inches, while the SCI minimum is 11 inches (combined horn length). Focus on finding mature rams with thick, well-developed horns rather than just length.
Expert Advice for Duiker Hunting
Tip #1: Watch the Ears
Duiker often stand motionless in vegetation, but their large ears may give them away. Scan thicket edges carefully for the distinctive rounded ears poking above grass or brush.
Tip #2: Focus on Feeding Areas
Locate areas with fallen fruit, particularly marula, wild fig, or monkey oranges. Duiker will return to productive feeding sites daily. Early morning sits near fruiting trees can be very productive.
Tip #3: Use the Wind
Duiker have excellent senses and will detect human scent easily. Always hunt into the wind, and be prepared for the animal to emerge upwind of where you expect it.
Tip #4: Aim Low
Duiker typically "duck" at the sound of a shot, dropping before fleeing. Aim at the lower third of the body to compensate for this reaction. This is especially important at ranges beyond 100 yards.
Tip #5: Stay Ready
Duiker encounters are often brief. Keep your rifle mounted on sticks when walking, or use a sling that allows quick access. Hesitation of even a few seconds usually means a missed opportunity.
Tip #6: Hunt Garden Edges
On farms with crops, duiker will raid gardens at dawn and dusk. With landowner permission, these agricultural edges can provide excellent hunting opportunities.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Moving too fast: Duiker hunting requires slow, deliberate movement
- Ignoring small movements: A flicking ear or tail is often the only warning before they bolt
- Poor shot selection: Wait for broadside shots; quartering angles are risky on small targets
- Celebrating too soon: Mark the spot carefully and approach cautiously—wounded duiker can vanish
Trophy Standards
Physical Characteristics
Duiker Species
Of 22 African duiker species, the common (gray) duiker is most hunted:
- Common Duiker - Widely distributed
- Blue Duiker - Coastal forests
- Red Forest Duiker - Central Africa
- Yellow-backed Duiker - Rainforests
Most forest duikers are rarely hunted due to habitat inaccessibility.
Related Small Antelope
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