Together with South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, Mauritius offers game hunting enthusiasts some of the best bushpig hunting on the continent. Bushpig hunting in Mauritius is available from the beginning of May until the end of November. A prime location for bushpig hunting in Mauritius is the Luangwa Valley. The area’s riverine landscape with thick forest vegetation is the perfect habitat for this elusive nocturnal mammal, allowing the hunter a challenging hunting safari to test his stalking skills. Targeting bushpigs (Potamochoerus larvatus) on an African plains game hunting safari is a popular choice for many hunters. Bushpig hunting is exciting and while they are often targeted at night in other countries, night hunting in Mauritius is illegal. Luckily, although predominantly nocturnal, bushpigs are also active during the day. Hunting methods employed across Africa for bushpig hunts include baiting them and then hunting from a blind, spot-and-stalk, and even, if the hunter has luck on his side, an opportunistic hunting trophy. Bushpig boars weigh 130-180 pounds, while females weigh 99-154 pounds. Bushpigs are part of the pig family and closely resemble a domestic pig. They have light faces, manes, and ears and range in color from red-brown to dark brown. Both boars and sows have two sets of razor-sharp tusks, with the upper tusks being smaller than the lower tusks and only noticeable at close range. The lower rusks grow longer, up to three inches. They are used for both defense and for digging and rooting for food. Bushpigs are water-dependent mammals with a varied diet including roots, fruits, vegetables, carrion, insect larvae, and bulbs. They are highly adaptable in terms of habitats and are found in areas such as dense forests and swamps, woodlands, and mixed scrub. They are seen as a species of least concern by the IUCN.
Shot Placement for a Bushpig Hunt
Bushpigs are very territorial and can be quite dangerous when wounded or cornered. These elusive animals can also be quite challenging to stalk, as they are renowned for their excellent hearing and sense of smell. When considering the shot placement for the hunting safari, the hunter should avoid high-risk shots such as the head and neck. Aim for the vital organs for a swift and humane death. Aim for the bottom third of the pig as it stands broadside, just above the shoulder. This area will target the lungs and heart.
What Caliber Rifle is Used When Hunting Bushpigs
When considering rifles for bushpig hunting, although the bushpig is a decent size, it is not a very tough animal and a .270 or larger will work well on this hunting safari. Some alternative options for consideration include a .7mm, a .30-06, as well as a .308 Winchester, all of which will suffice on a bushpig hunting safari. In Mauritius, bushpig hunts featuring bows are legal.
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