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Red hartebeest
The Red Hartebeest (Alcelaphus caama) is a species of even-toed ungulate in the Bovidae family. It is found in Southern Africa.
provinces of South Africa. In north Africa several subspecies occur. Pronounced differences in coloration, horn shape and size can cause considerable confusion in identification. The red hartebeest stands at an average height of between 120 and 140cm and has an average weight of approximately 140 kg. It is a tall, elegant antelope. Coloration of the smooth glossy coat varies from reddish brown to fawn or tawny depending on location. An extension of dark coloration extending from the shoulders to mid-back and down to the base of the tail is more noticeable in males. Both sexes have a well defined area of lighter yellow hair along the rump. Dark patches from the front of the shoulders extend down the front of the forelegs sometimes stopping short of the knees but in some cases might extend all the way to the hooves. The forehead is black with a wide patch of red or brown across the face and between the eyes. There is a black band across the muzzle. The sides of the face and neck are lighter in shade with two narrow streaks of black joining to form a single stripe down the ridge of the neck. White hair covers the inside of the long pointed ears. Both sexes carry horns although those of the male are heavier. Set close together at their base, they rise straight up level with the skull, curving forward and then backwards at right angles with ridges covering about two thirds of their length. The tips are smooth. Fun facts about the Red hartebeest Sometimes nicknamed the “Harley Davidson” of the antelope tribe, because of the configuration of his horns. |
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