As one of Africa’s largest bovids, the roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus) is only bested in size by the Cape buffalo and eland. They are one of the largest antelope species worldwide, and a perfect specimen to target on your next African hunting safari.

This large antelope is native to Western, Central, and Southern Africa. Their preferred habitats include tropical and subtropical grassland, savanna, and woodland type areas.

Roan antelope, like their Africa plains game counterparts, prefer to graze on grasses and shrubs while occasionally consuming herbs and tree pods. They consume vast amounts of water and seek out territories close to watering holes or water sources.

Herds of up to 20 animals, with a dominant female are common, with most herds having one adult bull. Younger males and old bulls usually live outside a herd, making them an easier target on the Africa plains game hunting safari. These big game antelopes require large areas of space to breed and thrive. Dominant bulls will duel in brutal fights to protect their territory. Should one of the bulls not yield, death is certain. Another factor in this territorial nature is that roan will not typically be seen in areas where there are other animal populations.

Roan females reach breeding maturity at around 2.5 years of age. Their gestation period is approximately 9-months, and females bare a single calf at a time. They will typically isolate themselves for approximately 1–2 weeks before giving birth. After giving birth, the mother will hide the calf, leaving it in a bushy or grassy area and returning regularly to feed it. When they reach 5-6 weeks, the calf will join the herd.

Predators of the roan include hyenas, wild dogs and leopards.