Introduction: The steenbok (Raphicerus campestris) is one of the most common species of antelope Namibia, partly due to the fact that during the dryer winter months it forages and rakes the ground, sometimes digging 'shoulder-deep' to excavate nutritious tubers, bulbs and roots that have a relatively high moisture content. Steenbok seek cover under taller trees and clusters of bushes and is often observed feeding in overgrazed fields and roadside verges.

A characteristic of the steenbok is its pointed face, allowing access to a variety of thorny plants, without fear of laceration. Steenbok are often seen alone, in pairs or in small groups due to their highly organized territorial systems.

Distribution: Throughout Namibia.

Diet: Steenbok are able to survive independently of free water and is a highly selective browser of young leaves, flowers, fruits and shoot tips.

Colouring: White underparts and buttocks blending into a reddish-brown coat.

Breeding: Births occur all year round. The mother conceals her baby for the first 3-4 months for feeding purposes and eats the baby's faeces and drinks the urine to reduce odour levels enabling its presence from predators to be concealed.

Size: Average height at the shoulder is 52cm. Weight 11kg.

Wildlife Namibia

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