the+blesbuck

The blesbuck is a South African antelope. Almost hunted to extinction, this species is now part of some private farms throughout it's former range and is one of the most abundant antelopes in South Africa. They can be from 140-160 cm long and have distinct white faces and four heads. They have skinny legs and big horns.

The Blesbuck lives in Highveld, and open grassland or plains with water, hopping around eating grass and hiding from its predators like cheetahs, lions, leopards, wild dogs, hyenas, pythons, jackals, and eagles. The Blesbuck is a grazing species that likes to feed on short grasses and greens.

Blesbuck travel in herds. They are very territorial. If disturbed, the Blesbuck will upwind in single file with each other. The Blesbuck is uncommon. There are about 200-250 in Bontebok National Park but there are thousands in the treeless Highveld.

Blesbuck are seasonal breeders by rutting from march to may. Births peek during November and December and there is only one calf. The calf are born clumsy and learn to walk around 1-2 weeks of age.