Africa Plains Game Hunting: The Golden Wildebeest

This mesmerizing Golden Wildebeest is a rare variation of the Blue Wildebeest

The golden wildebeest (Connochaetes Taurinus), also known as the golden gnu, is a African plains game antelope endemic to South Africa and Namibia. It is listed as an animal of “least concern” by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and available to target on game hunting safaris in the region.

The golden wildebeest can be found in various habitats in southern Africa, from bush and open woodlands to plains in South Africa and Namibia. Their chosen habitat is neither too arid nor too wet, but rather an area sporting short grassed plains.

The golden wildebeest is a herbivore. They are most active early in the day and later in the afternoon while resting during the hotter section of the day.

The golden wildebeest falls prey to numerous carnivores, such as lions, hyenas, and Nile crocodiles.

AT A GLANCE

Name:
Connochaetes taurinus

Male Weight:
396-550 pounds

Male Shoulder Height:
43-59 inches

Range:
South Africa and Namibia

Hunting The Golden Wildebeest

The Golden Wildebeest is available when hunting in South Africa.

Size and Appearance

The golden wildebeest is a large antelope, sporting a heavily built forequarter and an almost rectangular-shaped head with large eyes, and large pointed ears. Both sexes have round, curved horns, with the male’s horns being thicker at the base. They are quite large, with adult males reaching up to 550 pounds and 59 inches at the shoulder. The most distinctive characteristic of this majestic beast is its unique coloring, which is almost a golden yellow, with dark brown stripes across its chest. Their manes, beards, and tails are also golden in color.

Hunting Methods

The two main methods generally used to target wildebeest are the walk-and-stalk method, as well as hunting the game hunting target from a blind, usually close to water and allowing the hunter a good view over the area.

Challenges and Rewards

Wildebeest are known as being a tough animal to target on a game hunting safari, so be prepared that your trophy will probably not go down without a fight! The reward, apart from a successful hunt, will be the most unusual game hunting trophy to add to your collection!

Rifles and Requirements

While targeting an animal the size of a golden wildebeest should not be considered with any caliber less than a .270, there are other options also available for your African plains game hunt. Flat shooting .300 magnums loaded with 200 grains to 220 grains are a popular option for this type of game. A .308 with a bullet weighing not less than 165 grains can be used. Something like a .338, .375, or even a .416 Rigby may be an option should the hunter be comfortable using a large rifle.