The Cape Mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra) is endemic to South Africa and is found in mountainous regions of the country. It is a subspecies of the mountain zebra but is the most restricted in terms of geographical area. They are the smallest living zebra species, and their status is listed by the IUCN as being “vulnerable.”

They inhabit mountainous regions of South Africa, living on the slopes and mountain plateaus, moving down to lower-lying areas during the colder winter months.

The Cape mountain zebra is more active early in the day or late in the afternoon, grazing and living in small herds. These herds are divided into breeding groups and bachelor groups of 5-8 members and unlike other African plains game and zebra species, they are not seen as being territorial. Breeding occurs all year, but more births are recorded during the summer months, after a year-long gestation period.

This African plains game species thrives on grasses, leafy bulbs, and numerous plant species. Predators of the Cape Mountain Zebra include spotted hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, lions, and hunting dogs. They will defend themselves against smaller predators by issuing a well-placed and powerful kick, or a hard bite.

AT A GLANCE

Name:
Equus zebra zebra

Male Weight:
514-572 pounds

Male Shoulder Height:
45-50 inches

Range:
South Africa

Mating:
December – February

Gestation Period:
1 year

Life span:
20-30 years

Size and Appearance

When zebra hunting in South Africa, look for a medium-sized zebra. They are thinner and smaller than other zebra species, with narrow hooves to assist them to climb and move along the mountainous regions, ensuring an exciting game hunting safari for hunting enthusiasts. Their stripes are narrowest at their head, spreading down the body, with the largest stripes over their rump. Their underbellies do not have stripes and are light-colored. Like a human fingerprint, each zebra’s stripes are unique to the animal. The smallest of the zebra species, males weigh between 514-572 pounds, standing between 45-50 inches at the shoulder.

Hunting Methods

Zebra hunting in South Africa takes the form of a traditional walk-and-stalk, requiring patience, stealth, and excellent shot placement on this beautiful species.

Challenges and Rewards

When game hunting in South Africa, the challenge of hunting this beautiful animal is worth the ultimate reward of a unique game hunting trophy, having hunted the smallest zebra alive, as well as many memories of your hunting safari to reflect upon.

Rifles and Requirements

Ensure that you are familiar and comfortable with your chosen rifle for zebra hunting in South Africa, and most importantly, are also an accurate shot with it. Use a medium to large caliber rifle. Popular rifles for a zebra hunting safari are 30 caliber rifles with a minimum bullet weight of 150 grain, or higher velocity rifles like the 7mm or 300 win-mag. A .375 can also work well to bring down your prized game hunting trophy.