Red Hartebeest Hunting

The red hartebeest, also known as the Cape hartebeest, is a large African antelope with a distinctive appearance - its steeply sloping back, long legs, and elongated face give it a somewhat ungainly look. Don't let this deceive you; they are among Africa's most elegant and athletic antelopes.

Adult bulls weigh 300-400 pounds (137-180 kg) and stand 46-50 inches (117-127 cm) at the shoulder. Both sexes carry heavily ridged horns that project from a large pedicle on top of the head, curving in a distinctive pattern - rising backward and upward, then forward, then backward again, up and out, then in and back.

The red hartebeest is the most colorful of the hartebeest subspecies, with its glossy reddish-brown coat and contrasting black markings. The species has excellent hearing and smell, though their eyesight is relatively poor - something experienced hunters can use to their advantage.

Hartebeest Subspecies

There are seven recognized subspecies of hartebeest across Africa:

• Red/Cape Hartebeest - Southern Africa (most commonly hunted)
• Lichtenstein's Hartebeest - Tanzania, Zambia, Mozambique
• Coke's Hartebeest - East Africa (kongoni)
• Lelwel Hartebeest - East/Central Africa
• Western Hartebeest - West Africa
• Swayne's Hartebeest - Ethiopia (endangered)
• Tora Hartebeest - Ethiopia, Eritrea (endangered)

Behavior Patterns

Red hartebeest are primarily diurnal, most active during cooler parts of the day. They are social animals, forming herds of up to 20-30 individuals led by a dominant territorial bull. They're highly vigilant, frequently watching for predators.

Territorial bulls often stand prominently on elevated mounds and mark their territories with dung piles. They are predominantly grazers, feeding selectively on medium-height grassland and showing a preference for fresh re-growth after veld fires or rain.

South Africa

Red hartebeest can be hunted year-round on private game ranches with exemption permits. Conservation efforts have successfully reintroduced them to many farms and reserves where they had been absent.

Namibia

Trophy hunting season runs from February 1 to November 30. Red hartebeest are well-established on private concessions throughout the country.

Botswana & Zimbabwe

Found in suitable habitat in both countries. Hunting is typically available on private concessions with proper permits and quotas.

Best Times to Hunt

• Early Morning: Most active feeding time - best opportunity
• Late Evening: Second period of peak activity
• May-August: Cooler months offer comfortable hunting conditions
• Midday: Often bedded and difficult to approach

Spot and Stalk

The primary hunting method for red hartebeest. Use quality optics to glass open plains and savanna during peak activity hours. Their distinctive shape makes them easy to identify at distance.

• Their poor eyesight can be exploited - move slowly when not observed
• Excellent hearing means silence is critical during approach
• Use wind direction carefully - their sense of smell is acute
• Territorial bulls on mounds make predictable targets

Ambush/Blind Hunting

Set up near water sources, especially in arid regions. While less water-dependent than some species, they do drink regularly when water is available. Also effective near known grazing areas.

Vehicle-Assisted Hunting

Use a vehicle to cover large areas and spot herds, then dismount for the stalk. Red hartebeest are often less wary of vehicles than foot hunters, allowing closer approach before beginning the final stalk.

Judging Trophy Quality

Your trophy red hartebeest should have a horn length of approximately 21-22 inches or more. Key features to assess:

• Horn length extending well above the pedicle
• Heavy ridging on the front of the horns
• Good curve pattern with definite "hooks" at tips
• Male skulls are larger with greater horn circumference
• Dark horn coloration indicates maturity

Rifles & Calibers

Red hartebeest are large, tough animals that require adequate caliber selection. While not as heavily built as wildebeest, they deserve respect.

Optics

Open plains hunting demands quality optics for spotting and long-range shooting.

• Riflescope: 3-12x50 or 4-16x50 variable for longer shots
• Binoculars: 10x42 or 10x50 for distance glassing
• Rangefinder: Essential for open country - shots can be 200-350 yards
• Spotting Scope: Helpful for trophy evaluation at distance

Bow Hunting

Challenging but rewarding from blinds near water or feeding areas.

• Minimum 60 lb draw weight recommended
• SCI Bow Minimum: 53"
• Heavy arrow setup for penetration on larger body
• Maximum ethical range: 40 yards
• Fixed blade broadheads preferred for reliability

Field Gear

• Quality shooting sticks - essential for long shots
• Comfortable, broken-in boots for walking
• Neutral-colored hunting clothing
• Wide-brimmed hat and quality sunglasses
• Sunscreen for exposed plains hunting
• Adequate water supply for long stalks

Physical Preparation

Red hartebeest hunting can involve considerable walking over open terrain. Moderate fitness is recommended.

• Walking 5-8 miles per day is typical during active hunting
• Terrain is generally flat to rolling - not technically difficult
• Heat can be significant - hydration is important
• Practice shooting from various positions with sticks

Marksmanship

Long shots are common in red hartebeest habitat. Be prepared.

Trophy Considerations

Red hartebeest are often considered an underrated trophy. Discuss your expectations with your PH.

Documentation & Permits

• Valid passport with 6+ months validity
• Rifle permit arranged through outfitter
• CITES not required (not a protected species)
• Export permits handled by outfitter
• Hunting license included in safari package

Trophy Handling

Red hartebeest make striking shoulder mounts with their distinctive head shape and colorful coat. The unusual horn configuration displays impressively. Life expectancy is 15-19 years, so mature bulls show excellent horn development. Most outfitters provide professional skinning and preparation services.