Steenbok

Steenbok - Raphicerus campestris

	Ram	Ewe
Mass (adult)	9 -13 kg	11 - 13 kg
Shoulder height	± 52 cm	± 52 cm
Life expectancy	± 6 years	± 6 years

Trophy Records
	Minimum	Record
Rowland Ward	4 -1/2"	7 -1/2" shot in 1909
SCI	11"	17 -4/16" shot in 1987
SCI Bowhunting	10"	14 -4/16" shot in 1994

Identification
	One of the most widely distributed of the so-called dwarf antelope and the most frequently seen. The large ears are distinctive and the insides are white with black stripes. There is a black stripe on top of the muzzle. There are no other characteristic markings and much of the body is covered with rufous-fawn hair but the underparts and insides of the legs are white. The rufous-fawn tail is very short. The ram has short, sharp-pointed vertical horns.
Habitat
	The Steenbok shows a preference for open areas where there is some cover. They are also found in open woodland with bare patches and areas with fresh grass sprouting after a fire. It avoids mountainous areas and grass plains with short grass.
Habits
	They are territorial and live single or in pairs. It establishes territories that both the male and female defend with displays. There are preferential grazing and resting areas as well as latrines close to the borders of such an area, which are scent-marked with the pre-orbital, pedal and throat glands. They are unique among antelope in that they defecate and urinate in shallow scrapes, which are dug with the front hooves and then covered again. It grazes during the cooler hours of the day and rests in tall grass or beneath a bush when it is hot. It is swift-footed, lies waiting until danger is almost upon it before jumping up and running away.
Food
	The Steenbok is a mixed feeder. It prefers leaves and grass, especially herbs and seldom drinks water.
Vocalisation
	Bleats softly.
Breeding
	1 (occasionally 2) young are born anytime during the year (possible peak from November to December) after a gestation period of ± 6 months. Ewes have 2 pairs of groin mammae.