Hunting Sable in Tanzania

African plains game hunting would never be the same without the majestic and regal sable antelope (Hippotragus Niger). Tanzania is home to two of the four subspecies of sable that are recognized, namely the southern sable (Hippotragus niger niger), also known as the common sable, and the Eastern sable (Hippotragus niger roosevelti), also known as the Roosevelt sable. While sable hunting in Tanzania occurs throughout the country, the western area is known for common sable hunting, while the Roosevelt sable hunts are most popular in the central and southern regions. The sable is a cautious, vigilant, and wary antelope that prefers a mixture of grasslands and savannah woodlands for its habitat. The sable is herbivorous, consuming grasses and herbs. It is also water-dependent and will travel for water when needed. This magnificent antelope tips the scale at 550 pounds, with the female of the species weighing around 490 pounds. Their coats range in color from a rich brown to black with a white underbelly. Their faces are jet black with white markings. Both males and females have exquisite ringed horns that arch backward, with a male’s horns measuring between 32-65 inches, and a female’s horns reaching 24-40 inches. Sables can and will defend themselves, utilizing their horns to impale their attacker. They are often targeted by large predators, including lions, leopards, and hyenas. In contradiction to the above, sables are considered the calmest, most confident, and graceful antelope. Sable antelopes are often seen as difficult to target on an African hunt. They are wary antelopes, always on alert, with dominant males and other members of the herd on the lookout for danger, issuing alarm calls when spotting threats. This makes it extremely difficult for a hunter to approach them undetected, and this, combined with their fast reflexes, makes them a challenge to stalk and hunt. They are best targeted through spot-and-stalk or tracking, while ambush techniques near a water hole have also been successful. Sable hunting in South Africa is available throughout the year. Sable hunts require a 21-day hunting license and although bow hunting sable is permitted, it is more expensive. Speak to your African outfitter about the necessary permits and costs for bow hunting in Tanzania.