Hunting a trophy red lechwe
Hunting a trophy red lechwe (Kobus leche)
|
Go to: |
||
|
|
||
|
|
||
|
Best recommended caliber to hunt |
||
|
Lechwe – red |
|
30-06, 7mm (all), 300 (all), 308, 338, 375 |
Hunting notes when hunting red lechwe:
The red lechwe was introduced to South Africa where they have adapted well to the local conditions. This is not a primary hunting animal and is mainly hunted by hunters who want to complete a collection, or just fall in love with the animal itself. Hunting red lechwe can be done year round.
They occur in a number of areas and we mainly hunt them in the Free State where it is open terrain. Stalking is done from behind vegetation or from the top of a low laying hillside. The average shooting distance is 100 – 200 yards and sometimes slightly beyond that.
The best recommended caliber for hunting red lechwe is the 300 cal and up. These are sturdy, muscular animals.
Description:
It is similar to the waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprimnus) in that the red lechwe has a thick pelt that is reddish-yellow on the back and flanks with a contrasting white belly, throat and the insides of the legs to the base of the tail. The fronts of the legs are black.
Habitat:
Lechwes are associated with water rich, tall grass areas in flood plains, along riverfronts and marsh areas.
Reproduction:
The rut lasts for about 2 – 3 weeks from April to June (winter). Calves can be born throughout the year but peaks during October – December.
General:
|
Gestation period |
After 230 days a solitary calf is born |
|
|
Average shoulder height |
Males |
40” – 44” |
|
Females |
36” – 42” |
|
|
Average weight |
Males |
170 lbs – 260 lbs |
|
Females |
120 lbs – 200 lbs
|
|
|
Horns |
Only the males have horns |
|
