SAFARIS

Plains Game

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Generally found on the plains or savannahs. The term is rather unspecific and refers to a range of different species, from the Duiker and Springbuck to the larger Kudu and Eland.

DID YOU KNOW?

Kudu

Kudu bulls bear massive, long, spiral horns which reach record lengths of up to 1.8 m. Their horns grow to their full length at the age of six years.

Gemsbuck

When Gemsbok(a.k.a Oryx) is deprived of drinking water it uses several measures to minimise its water needs, notably allowing its body temperature to rise from a normal 35.7°C to 45°C (113F) then using evaporative cooling by nasal panting and sweating. It also concentrates its urine and absorbs all possible moisture.

Hartebeest

The name Hartebeest was thought to refer to the heart shaped curve of the horns but the accepted theory now is that it comes from the Dutch word hert which means deer in Dutch and beest meaning beast. The term hartebeest was used by the early Boers who thought the animals looked like a deer. Hartebeest is the Afrikaans for hertebeest.

Springbok

The Springbok is the most abundant antelope in the central and western parts of South Africa. Some herds are still free roaming within some of its natural range, but most are now confined to farmlands and reserves. They are a common feature in most of South Africa’s national, provincial and private reserves.

Impala

The Impala is preyed upon by most of the large carnivores and the young often fall prey to Pythons. The Impala are therefore on constant alert. Should one of them spot danger, it will snort an alarm and the whole herd will scatter. It is one of the treats offered by nature to see this antelope perform their incredible 3 metre high and 12 metre long leaps.