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Hunting crocodile in zimbabwe

Hunting crocodile in zimbabwe

Explore the Thrill Of Crocodile Hunting in Zimbabwe

While crocodile hunting in Zimbabwe may not be top of your list of destinations to hunt this beast, read on because you are about to be pleasantly surprised at the African hunts available to target this aggressive, cold-blooded reptile. A landlocked country sharing its borders with South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique and Zambia, Zimbabwe provides game hunting enthusiasts with the chance to target this deadly reptile on exciting hunting safaris, using both bows and rifles. Two popular areas for crocodile hunting in Zimbabwe are Lake Kariba, to the north of the country, where Zimbabwe shares its border with Zambia, as well as the Limpopo River which separates South Africa and Zimbabwe. Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) remains a sought-after dangerous and big game hunting trophy. It has certainly earned its place as a member of the Dangerous 7 and stories abound of man-eating crocodiles in both Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Sound intriguing? Read on! Preferring freshwater, this reptile is known to frequent rivers, estuaries, marshes, and lakes, feasting on almost anything unlucky enough to cross its path, such as African plains game, birds, large fish, and even young hippos.

African hunts featuring the Nile crocodile require precision shot placement, patience, and extreme caution to successfully harvest this beast that can reach 18 feet and over 2,000 pounds! This cunning, cold-blooded predator enjoys sunning itself on riverbanks, looking the picture of innocence while its jaws hold 64-68 razor-sharp teeth just waiting to spring into action and devour its next prey. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the status of the Nile crocodile as that of “least concern” but a CITES permit is required for this African hunt.

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Shot Placement while Crocodile Hunting in Zimbabwe

When crocodile hunting in Zimbabwe, the hunter must consider the various hunting methods and see which would work best for him. Firstly, he can hunt from a temporary blind that has been set up to using rotting meat as bait. Secondly, he can stalk the crocodile along the riverbanks unless he gets into position. This is the more difficult option, as crocodiles have exceptional hearing and can sense vibrations on land and in the water, through sensory organs called DPRs (Dermal Pressure Receptors). Once within range, popular shot placement options for this African hunt include a frontal brain shot, which is the most likely option that your PH will recommend. It will result in a quick and humane death for the reptile. The heart broadside shot sees the crocodile lying broadside, with the heart and lungs exposed. The hunter must consider the position of the reptile’s front leg when contemplating this shot, as the heart is not always in the same position. The quartering away brain shot is the most difficult shot and should only be considered when you are absolutely certain that you have your shot placement correct. Whichever shot placement you decide on, have your second and third shots ready in quick succession. Firstly, this will ensure a quick and humane kill, and secondly, it will prevent the crocodile from heading towards the water.

What Caliber Rifle is Used for Crocodile Hunting in Zimbabwe?

Both bows and rifles are permitted within certain areas when crocodile hunting in Zimbabwe. Choose a rifle that will penetrate its thick skull and vertebrae, for a humane and quick death. Take into consideration that Nile crocodiles are notoriously difficult to kill, and have thick, armor-like skin to protect their vital organs. Rifles such as a 7mm, 300-win mag, or a .375 will get the job done. Remember too, that night hunting safaris are allowed, so pack an accurate and reliable night scope with which you are familiar.

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