TSESSEBE

The Tsessebe (Damaliscus lunatus lunatus) is recognised for its reddish-brown coat and distinct dark face and shoulders. Known for its speed, it is one of the fastest antelopes, capable of reaching 90 km/h. They live in herds, often led by dominant males, and are social animals that rely on speed for escaping predators.

Distribution: Found in Southern Africa and Zambia.

Size: A medium to large-sized African antelope.

Weight: 300 – 350lb / 140 kg

Shoulder Height: 47 – 49’’ / 1.20 – 1.24 m

Horns: Both sexes have horns. Males, have shortish lyre- shaped horns spread smoothly outwards, backwards and inwards but do not arise from the pedicle as in the Hartebeest. Usually ringed except for the tips.

Habitat: Found on plains, lightly wooded country or open grasslands or flood plains where they graze on Habits: Tsessebe are diurnal, most active during the cooler hours of the morning and late afternoon. They are highly social animals forming herds, with smaller bachelor groups or female-led groups with their young. Dominant males establish territories during the breeding season, defending them aggressively. They use vantage points to spot threats and will move between grazing areas and water sources.

Hunting Tips: Rare and can be difficult to hunt in certain areas. Best approached by slowly stalking at an angle giving the animals the impression that you are going to walk past them.

Trophy Information

Good Horn Length: 14’’  

Record Book

SCI Min. : 40

SCI Min. Bow : 36  

Rowland Ward Min. : 15  

World Record : 18 7/8 

SCI Measurement Method: 1  

Rowland Ward Measurement Method: 7-a 

Species & Subspecies Information

Species: 1. Crescent Horned Antelope or Tsessebe.  

Subspecies: 2. Common Tsessebe and Bangweulu Tsessebe.  

Closely Related: Topi and Tiang from East Africa