Africa is known for its beautiful and majestic antelopes and the gemsbok (Oryx gazella) certainly ticks that box. Also known as the gemsbuck or South African oryx, this African plains game antelope is available for hunting in Botswana, as well as South Africa, Namibia, and parts of Zimbabwe. Gemsbok hunting in Botswana occurs throughout most of the country, with the best game hunting trophies recorded from the Kalahari region, which provides a suitable habitat for these desert-adapted antelopes. The best time to target these regal creatures is during the cooler winter months, although gemsbok hunts do take place throughout the hunting season which runs from April to September. Gemsbok are generally more active at night, when temperatures drop and these powerful antelopes forage for moisture-rich plants and roots. The animal can survive without moisture for long periods and has adapted to harsh, arid conditions. Gemsbok are truly majestic antelope and an iconic African plains game species. Featuring large, spear-like black horns, with the females’ horns being larger and reaching up to 48 inches compared to the males that reach 33-38 inches, this antelope is not only beautiful but dangerous and will defend itself against attackers or other gemsbok when fighting. They are sturdy animals reaching up to 500 pounds for males with females 80 pounds lighter. Their coat is a gray-brown color. The coat has a long black stripe running from the chin, through the neck area and shoulders, along the flank, and ending at the back of each leg, just above the white “socks” of the animal. Each leg also has a black patch on the front. The gemsbok has a thick neck and short mane and is a sturdy, solid antelope.