Species Overview

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Bovidae

Genus: Oreotragus

Species: Oreotragus oreotragus

Life Span: 10–15 years (in the wild)

Weight: 10–15 kg (22–33 lbs)

Height: 50–60 cm (20–24 inches) at the shoulder

Animal Behavior and Habits

Activity: Diurnal – most active during the cooler hours of the morning and late afternoon.

Feeding Habits: Herbivores – feed on grasses, leaves, shrubs, and fruits.

Social Structure: Solitary or in small family groups of 2–5 individuals. Males are territorial.

Hunting Approach: Stealthy approach; look for them on rocky outcrops or cliffs, as they are well camouflaged.

Habitat and Environment

Preferred Habitat: Rocky hills, cliffs, and mountainous areas with sparse vegetation.

Water Sources: Can be found near water but can go without drinking for several days due to their diet of moisture-rich vegetation.

Best Hunting Locations: Steep, rocky outcrops or rocky hilltops where they can easily hide and evade predators.

Tracks and Trails: Small, cloven-hoofed tracks, often found on rocky terrain.

Signs: Look for signs of grazing on rocks or signs of their small hooves on rocky paths.

Hunting Time

Ideal Hunting Times: Early morning and late afternoon, as they rest during the heat of midday.

Breeding Season: Mating season typically occurs year-round, but more frequent during the rainy season (November–March).

Trophy Quality: Not typically hunted for trophies, but prized for the challenge of hunting in rugged terrain.

Use of Scent Lures: Rarely used for hunting, as their small size and agility make them difficult to catch.