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Targeting The White-Flanked Impala

Targeting The White-Flanked Impala

The white-flanked impala gracefully navigates open savannas and woodland edges

The impala is a common African plains game trophy often targeted when hunting in South Africa. The white-flanked impala is a color variant of the common impala (Aepyceros melampus) and is available for hunting safaris in South Africa. It should be noted that four impala color variants have been bred on South African game farms. They are not subspecies of the common impala, but rather color variants achieved through selective breeding processes.

The four impala color variants are:

  • The Black impala
  • The White-flanked impala
  • The Saddle-back impala

These herbivores browse the plains, grazing on a selection of shrubs and leaves. The impala antelope thrives in habitats of woodlands with some trees, grasslands, and savannas. They thrive in an environment with plenty of water, as they need to drink daily. Grassy regions with plenty of vegetation allow them to hide from predators such as cheetahs, lions, hyenas, and leopards.

Hunting in South Africa is as natural as breathing and the impala is a common, yet popular African plains game target. These antelopes are hunted by novice and seasoned hunting enthusiasts alike and provide a pleasant hunting adventure. Now, with the opportunity to target a color variant, the thrill of impala hunting in South Africa is even more enticing! The best place to enjoy white-flanked impala hunting in South Africa is in the country’s famous Limpopo province, where these special color variants are found.

The conservation status of the impala is listed by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as least concern.

AT A GLANCE

Name:
Aepyceros melampus

Male Weight:
110-160 pounds

Male Shoulder Height:
30-35 inches

Horns:
Male only

Gestation Period:
Southern Africa

Life span:
12-15 years

Hunting White-Flanked Impala

The white-flanked impala is well-suited to its environment, with strong, agile legs that allow it to leap great distances and quickly escape predators.

Size and Appearance

The white-flanked impala would certainly not survive long in its natural environment, as camouflaging is no longer an option and predators are always on the prowl! The white-flanked impala has white flanks, neck, and face, with sections of its back also white. Only males have beautiful lyre-shaped horns that grow to 15-35 inches in length.

Hunting Methods

Impala hunting in South Africa is an exciting and enjoyable hunting safari! Hunting methods for this agile antelope include targeting it from a blind, or stalking the herd in times when they are more active, such as early morning and late afternoon as they graze. The challenge is to approach them undetected, not an easy feat with so many impalas on the lookout for danger.

Challenges and Rewards

Targeting them undetected is indeed a challenge, but the reward of a unique game hunting trophy to add to your collection is well worth the blood, sweat, and tears that this remarkable antelope can cause! This hunt requires patience and is an excellent opportunity to test your stalking skills!

Rifles and Requirements

A reminder that no matter what the target of the hunting safari is, shot placement is of paramount importance. A common and popular option for impala hunting in South Africa is a .22. Other popular options include a 7mm up to 30 caliber options.

MASTERING SHOT PLACEMENT FOR MEDIUM ANTELOPE

 

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