Description
ABOUT:
A Saddleback Blesbuck is a rare and distinct variation of the Blesbuck (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi), a medium-sized antelope native to Southern Africa. The Blesbuck is typically characterized by a white blaze on its face, but the saddleback variation has a unique coat pattern: a dark, contrasting saddle-shaped mark on its back, which makes it stand out from the regular Blesbuck.
- Size: Adult males weigh between 50–60 kg (110–130 lbs), while females are slightly smaller. They stand about 85–100 cm (33–39 inches) at the shoulder.
- Color: The Saddleback Blesbuck has a rich brown to reddish-brown coat with a distinct white blaze on its face. The “saddle” pattern is a darker patch of fur that typically starts around the shoulders and extends down to the hips.
- Face Markings: They have a white facial blaze that extends from the eyes to the nose, characteristic of all Blesbocks.
- Horns: Both males and females have horns, though they are more prominent in males. The horns are generally long, slender, and curved.
- Diet: Blesbucks are grazers, feeding primarily on grasses, though they may also consume some shrubs and herbs.