When hunters talk about a dangerous game hunting safari, they tend to mention members of Africa’s Big 5 and Dangerous 7, such as the hippo, lion, elephant, and, of course, the Cape buffalo. But lurking below the waters of the Zambezi and many other freshwater habitats is an apex predator that defines crocodile hunting in Zambia.
The Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) is a blood-thirsty, aggressive, and cold-blooded reptile that remains a sought-after trophy on any serious crocodile hunting safari. With more than 60 razor-sharp teeth and the power to ambush prey at the water’s edge, it has earned its place among Africa’s dangerous game.
These crocodiles can reach up to 18 feet in length and weigh close to 2,000 pounds, making them one of the most formidable animals you can pursue on a dangerous game safari.
These man-eating crocodiles are well-known throughout Africa and popular areas for crocodile hunting in Zambia include the Luangwa Valley with its numerous tributaries ensuring water year-round, the Bangweulu Swamps in northeastern Zambia, as well as the Kafue River regions. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the status of the Nile crocodile as that of “least concern.” A CITES permit is required for a crocodile hunting safari in Zambia.
Shot Placement while Crocodile Hunting in Zambia
An African hunt featuring the notorious Nile crocodile allows a couple of options in terms of hunting safari methods. Firstly, they can be hunted from a temporary blind using bait to entice them into the area. Secondly, they can be approached on a mokoro (traditional canoe), and once spotted, a walk-and-stalk will follow to get within range. When it comes to shot placement, this is the most critical component of the hunt. Although there are numerous options available when on a crocodile hunting safari, your PH is likely to recommend a frontal brain shot, with follow-up shots in quick succession. This is the fastest and most humane way to get your crocodile hunting trophy in the salt. Other popular shot placement options include a broadside brain shot, broadside heart shot, and a quartering away brain shot, the most challenging option of all.
What Caliber Rifle is Used for Crocodile Hunting in Zambia?
While bow hunting of dangerous game is not permitted in Zambia, you do have a choice of rifles with which to target this cold-blooded killer. A reminder to use a rifle with which you are comfortable and can shoot extremely accurately, as shot placement is paramount when crocodile hunting in Zambia. You will need to penetrate this predator’s thick skin, as well as its bony, massive skull and vertebrae for a successful hunting safari, and rifles such as a 7mm, 300-win mag, or a .375 are well-suited to meet these requirements
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