What is Plains Game?

I once heard that the term “plains game” originated in the early 1800s when African big game hunters used it. They were more interested in the big game, such as buffalo, elephant, leopard, rhino, and lion. They referred to every other sort of game as ordinary or “plain,” hence other antelopes and game were referred to as “plains game.”

The term “plains game” is commonly used in the context of hunting to refer to animals that inhabit open grasslands or plains. Hunters pursue these animals in this environment, and the term helps distinguish them from those found in other terrains like forests or mountains. It is essentially a categorization based on the habitat where these animals are commonly found.

The term “plains game” is a compound word where “plains” refers to flat or gently rolling expanses of land, often covered in grass, and “game” in this context means wild animals that are hunted. The origin of the term is a straightforward combination of these words to describe the specific category of wildlife found in open grasslands or plains, commonly targeted in hunting activities.

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What is the Most Sought-after African Plains Game Antelope?

The Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) is the most popular African plains game antelope to hunt. The kudu is a type of antelope found in Africa, known for its majestic appearance. Both male and female kudus have distinctive features.  

Male Kudu

The male, known as a bull, is characterized by its long, spiral horns that can reach impressive lengths, often exceeding 6 feet (1.8 meters). These horns have two and a half twists and are a prominent feature, making the male kudu easily recognizable. Bulls are generally larger and heavier than females, with a robust build and a shoulder height of around 55-63 inches (140-160 centimeters).  Their coat is typically greyish brown with vertical white stripes along the body, providing effective camouflage in the dense vegetation of their habitat.

Feale Kudu

The female kudu, called a cow, lacks the impressive spiral horns of the male. Instead, she has no horns at all. Female kudus are generally smaller and lighter than males, with a more slender build, and a shoulder height of 43-59 inches (110-150 centimeters). Like males, females also have a coat with vertical white stripes, aiding in camouflage. Both males and females have a crest of hair along their spine, which can be raised for communication or display purposes.

These antelopes are often found in woodland and bushland areas, using their agility and excellent leaping ability to navigate through dense vegetation. The kudu’s striking appearance and graceful movements make it a fascinating species to observe in its natural habitat.

What is the Most Popular African Plains Game to Hunt in South Africa?

Blue Wildebeest makes the most popular plains game hunting in South Africa.  The blue wildebeest is referred to as a “poor man’s buffalo.”  

The blue wildebeest, also known as the common wildebeest or brindled gnu, is a large and robust antelope species native to eastern and southern Africa. It is a perfect example of top-notch African big game and a very popular hunting trophy.

Physical Characteristics

• Size and Build: Adult blue wildebeests are large, with a shoulder height of 47-59 inches (120-150 centimeters). They have a heavy, muscular build, designed for endurance and stamina during migrations.
• Coat and Coloration: The coat of the blue wildebeest is short and coarse, with a brindled pattern that gives it a mottled appearance. The coloration ranges from bluish-gray to brownish-gray, which varies among individuals and populations.
• Horns: Both males and females possess curved, pointed horns. The horns sweep sidewards and curve upward, resembling a shape similar to parentheses. The horns can reach up to 28 inches (70 centimeters).

Behavior and Habitat

• Social Structure:  Blue wildebeests are social animals and often form large migratory herds, particularly during the dry season when they search for water and grazing grounds. These herds have a hierarchical structure, with dominant males leading and defending their territory.
• Habitat:  They inhabit various environments, from open grasslands to savannas and woodland areas, adapting to different ecosystems.
• Migratory Behaviour:  Blue wildebeests are known for their impressive migrations, where thousands of individuals move in search of food and water. This migration is not only a survival strategy but also serves to synchronize calving, providing a better chance for the survival of the young calves.
• Diet:  Blue wildebeests are herbivores, primarily grazing on grasses. Their diet is adapted to the seasonal availability of vegetation in their habitats.
• Reproduction:  Mating typically occurs during the rainy season, and after a gestation period of around eight and a half months, a single calf is born. Calves are normally able to stand and run shortly after birth, a crucial adaptation for survival in the wild.

What is the Largest African Plains Game Animal?

The Eland (Taurotragus oryx), is the largest and slowest African big game antelope species, native to southern and eastern Africa.

Physical Characteristics

• Size and Build:  The eland is the largest antelope species, with males standing 5.6-6.6 feet (1.7-2 meters) at the shoulder. They have a distinctive dewlap or “skin flap” hanging from their throat, which is more prominent in males.
• Coat and Coloration:  The coat of the eland is generally tan to fawn in color, and it becomes darker in older individuals.  Both males and females have spiral-shaped horns, with those of males being thicker and longer, reaching impressive lengths of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters).
• Distinctive Features:  Elands have large, rounded hooves adapted for soft and hard terrain, enabling them to move efficiently across various landscapes. Their long, twisted horns, present in all genders, can be used for defense against predators and in intraspecific conflicts.

Behavior and Habitat

• Social Structure: Elands are social animals, and they often form loose herds consisting of females, calves, and young males. Older males may be solitary or form smaller groups. Their social structure is not as hierarchical as a few other antelope species.
• Habitat: They inhabit numerous ecosystems, including grasslands, woodlands, and semi-desert areas. Elands are highly adaptable to different environments.
• Behavioural Adaptations: Elands are known for their remarkable jumping ability despite their generous size. They can clear obstacles or fences with ease.
• Diet: Elands are herbivores, primarily grazing on grasses and browsing on leaves, depending on food availability in their environment.
• Conservation Status: While the Eland is not currently considered endangered, local populations can be affected by habitat loss and hunting pressures.

The Eland’s impressive size, distinctive appearance, and adaptability to various habitats make it a fascinating species within the diverse array of African wildlife.

What is the Smallest African Plains Game Animal?

The Bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) is an antelope found in various habitats across sub-Saharan Africa.

Physical Characteristics

• Size and Build: Bushbucks are generally medium-sized, with males standing about 2.6-3.3 feet (80-100 centimeters) at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller than males, and both sexes have a sturdy, compact build.
• Coat and Coloration: The coat of the bushbuck varies in color, ranging from reddish-brown to gray or yellow-brown, depending on the subspecies and local environment. They often have distinctive white markings, including spots, stripes, and a white ring on the rump.
• Horns: Males possess spiral-shaped horns that are present in both sexes but are generally larger in males. The horns have one to three twists and can reach lengths of around 20 inches (50 centimeters).

Behavior and Habitat

• Solitary Behaviour: Bushbucks are primarily solitary, although females are seen with their offspring. Males are often more territorial and may defend their home ranges.
• Habitat: They inhabit many environments, including forests, woodlands, and savannas. Bushbucks are adaptable and can inhabit dense and more open habitats.
• Nocturnal Habits: Bushbucks are known for their crepuscular and nocturnal activity, being more active during dawn and dusk to avoid daytime heat and predators.

• Diet: Bushbucks are browsers, feeding on leaves, fruits, and vegetation. Their diet can include both grasses and shrubs.

• Reproduction: The gestation period for bushbucks is around six to seven months, and females usually give birth to a single calf, although twins can occur.

• Conservation Status:  The bushbuck is not considered globally threatened, and its conservation status varies among different subspecies and populations.

The bushbuck’s adaptability, subtle beauty, and preference for diverse habitats make it a fascinating and diverse member of Africa’s antelope species.

Main Plains Game Targeted when Hunting in Africa

Besides the above-mentioned antelope species, there are also:

• Impala (Aepyceros melampus)
• Springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis)
• Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus)
• Gemsbok (Oryx gazella)
• Hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus)
• Blesbok (Damaliscus pygargus)
• Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus)
• Nyala (Tragelaphus angasii)
• Sable Antelope (Hippotragus niger)
• Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus)
• Common Duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia)
• Steenbok (Raphicerus campestris)
• Warthog (Phacochoerus africanus)
• Black Wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou)
• Red Hartebeest (Alcelaphus caama)
• Bontebok (Damaliscus pygargus dorcas)
• Mountain Reedbuck (Redunca fulvorufula)

These are just a selection, and there are many more species of antelope and game animals in Southern Africa, each contributing to the region’s rich biodiversity and offering unique opportunities for wildlife observation and sustainable hunting.

What is the Best Caliber Rifle for Plains Game Hunting in Africa?

Selecting the best caliber rifle for plains game hunting often depends on personal preferences, shooting proficiency, and the specific types of plains game you intend to hunt. Here are some popular rifle calibers considered effective for plains game hunting in Southern Africa:

• .270 Winchester: Suitable for medium-sized plains game, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
• 7mm Remington Magnum: Known for its flat trajectory and sufficient energy, making it effective for a variety of plains game species.
• .30-06 Springfield: Versatile and widely used, capable of taking down a range of plains game with appropriate ammunition.
• .308 Winchester: Offers a good combination of manageable recoil and sufficient power for many plains game species.
• .300 Winchester Magnum: Well-regarded for its power and long-range capabilities, suitable for larger plains game.
• .375 H&H Magnum: A classic choice for African hunting, particularly for larger species, providing ample stopping power.
• .338 Winchester Magnum: Suitable for a variety of plains game, offering a balance between manageable recoil and stopping power.

Always consider shot placement and use appropriate ammunition to hunt the specific game you are targeting. It is crucial to match the caliber to the size of the animal and to ensure that you are comfortable and accurate with your chosen rifle. Additionally, local hunting regulations may dictate minimum caliber requirements for certain species, so check and adhere to those guidelines.

What Do Plains Game Hunts Cost?

The cost of plains game hunting in Southern Africa can vary widely based on several factors, including the country in which you choose to hunt, the specific species you target, the quality of the hunting experience, and the amenities provided.  Some general considerations are the following:

• Daily Rates: Many outfitters charge a daily rate, which typically covers accommodation, meals, and the services of professional guides. These rates can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per day.
• Trophy Fees: Trophy fees are additional charges for each animal harvested. The cost varies significantly based on the species, with more desirable or rarer species commanding higher fees. Trophy fees can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per animal.
• Travel and Logistics: Consider the cost of travel to the hunting destination, including flights, visas, and transportation within the country. Some outfitters may include airport transfers as part of their services.
• Tips and Gratuities: It is customary to tip guides, trackers, and other staff for their services. While the amount varies, it is generally recommended to budget a percentage of the total hunt cost for tips.
• Trophy Preparation and Shipping: If you plan to bring trophies home, factor in costs for field preparation, dipping, packing, and shipping. These costs can vary depending on the species and the taxidermy services you choose.
• Accommodation and Luxury Levels: The type of accommodation and luxury level can influence the overall cost. High-end lodges and luxury safaris often come with a higher price tag.

Given these factors, packages for plains game hunting in Africa can start from a few thousand dollars and rise significantly, depending on your preferences. It’s essential to thoroughly research outfitters, inquire about all costs upfront, and ensure that you understand the terms of the hunt.

If you liked reading about African plains game, read more about plains game hunting in Africa, plains game hunting in the Kalahari or enquire here about packages.

Author: Tamlyn van Wyk