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Targeting The Gabon Duiker

Targeting The Gabon Duiker

Gabon’s duiker offers an exciting hunting challenge for those eager to pursue this elusive antelope

Many species of duiker call Africa home. One of these is the Gabon duiker, also known as the white-bellied duiker. This small to medium antelope is native to sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in several countries, including Gabon, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon.

 

They inhabit and thrive in closed canopy forests where they feed mainly on fruits and seeds.

 

There are two recognized subspecies:

  1. l. leucogaster: Found in the western section of the Democratic Republic of Congo
  2. l. arrhenii: Found in the eastern section of the Democratic Republic of Congo

 

Breeding happens throughout the year but there are peak periods. The gestation period for the Gabon duiker is approximately 6 months, after which one lamb is born.

 

This species of duiker is listed as “near threatened” by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

AT A GLANCE

Name:
Cephalophus leucogaster

Male Weight:
33-46 pounds

Male Shoulder Height:
16,5 -19 inches

Range:
Sub-Saharan Africa

Life span:
No information given

Hunting Gabon Duiker

Gabon’s duiker is highly adept at blending into its surroundings

Size and Appearance

The white-bellied duiker is a medium-sized antelope that is generally pale in color with a white belly and underparts. The coat is a very light brown that slowly shades to a slightly darker reddish-brown over the rump area. The tail is short-haired except for the tip which includes long, black hair.

Hunting Methods

This dainty, nocturnal antelope is best hunted in the early mornings, using the walk-and-stalk method. Be prepared for a good challenge, as they are experts in the art of camouflage.

Challenges and Rewards

Due to their size and wary nature, duikers are difficult to approach. The best method is the spot-and-stalk technique, used for most duiker species during an African hunt. Be aware that many duikers will dive head-first into the closest dense vegetation to escape danger, be ready!

Rifles and Requirements

When targeting the white-bellied duiker while hunting in Africa, it’s very likely going to be at a close range, with a fast-moving target that is ready to disappear at a moment’s notice! A .308 or a 30.06 loaded with solids are options to use when targeting the Gabon duiker, while another consideration is a shotgun, but avoid using high calibers.

MASTERING SHOT PLACEMENT FOR SMALL ANTELOPE

 

Available Gabon Duiker Hunts

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