SENWANE GAME FARM ‐MARICO 20 KQ‐
(Rooibokkraal) ‐ DJ Farmer‐
Registration & standing permit application for Captive Breeding Operation for following
species:
* Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger)
Compiled by: Themeda Game Farm Services
David Lotter April 2013
CONTENTS: Introduction …1 Location …3 Climate …4 Goals & Objectives …5 Veld Assessment …7 Vegetation monitoring points …9 Table 1: Grass species composition …15 Table 2: Ecological index values …16 Table 3: Grass status summary …17 Table 4: Grazing value summary …18 Table 5 & 6: Tree species composition & densities …19 Project Proposal …20 Project Description – Background & Necessity …20 Methods …22 Facilities …24 Other info – Legal acquisition & Vets …25 Details of Holder of Permit & Species on application …26 Consultant contact details …27 Sable antelope management …28 Bibliography …46 Map 1: Marico Farm Location …43 Map 2: Marico Proposed Project Enclosure Location …44 Illustration 1: Marico Proposed Project Enclosure …45
‐1‐
INTRODUCTION:
Senwane Game Farm (Marico 20 KQ ‐ portion 1) is located within the ‘Limpopo Sweet
Bushveld – SVcb 19’ (Mucina & Rutherford: The Vegetation of SA, Lesotho & Swaziland,
2005), with predominantly flat terrain and dominant woody species including mixed Acacia
species, Commiphora mollis, Combretum apiculatum, Sclerocarya birrea and Grewia species
on a reddish, sandy soil. The proposed area is relatively closed bushveld and partly old,
cultivated lands (restored), with relatively large, scattered trees and open savanna areas,
ideal for Sable antelope and Roan antelope as proposed.
With the main focus on sustainable utilisation of the environment and natural resources, as
well as looking at environmental threats and biodiversity loss due to over exploitation of
these resources, impact of invasive and exotic vegetation and general loss of habitat due to
mining, agriculture and human settlement, captive breeding (with high welfare standards)
of rare and endangered species can play a major role in conservation and survival of species.
Captive facilities can contribute to conservation actions, promotion of scientific knowledge
generation and the provision of expertise in the care of animal collections in collaboration
with captive facilities such as zoos (A. Kotze et al – The role of captive facilities in wildlife
ranching, 2011). The survival of species may depend on these captive facilities generating
scientific knowledge of specific species, such as the European Bison that was brought back
from near‐extinction to a small healthy population, currently ensuring the survival of that
specie.
The data able to collect from these facilities may contribute to information critical to the
survival and maintenance of genetic diversity and the viability of species in or outside their
natural habitat. Private wildlife farmers can provide facilities to generate information that
help in the long‐term improvement of breeding programmes and needs for certain species
that had become rare and endangered.
As part of the United Nations’ program to address the impact of humans on the
environment, Agenda 21 was adopted as an initiative of the 1992 United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development (Rio de Janeiro). This is a comprehensive plan
of action to be taken globally, nationally and locally in all areas where humans impact on the
environment, with education and public awareness key components of virtually all areas of
this Agenda. Captive facilities have a responsibility in terms of Agenda 21 to contribute to
the achievement of environmental and development of awareness in all sectors of society
‐2‐
as soon as possible. Captive facilities are uniquely positioned to breach the gap between
people and the natural world through the creation of learning experiences that raise
awareness of environmental threats and biodiversity loss (A Kotze et al ‐ The role of captive
facilities in wildlife ranching, 2011).
‐3‐ 2. LOCATION:
The Farm Marico 20 KQ (portion 1) is located approximately 8 (eight) kilometres south
south‐west of Rooibokkraal and 64 kilometres north‐west of Thabazimbi, east of the D1173
road, in the far north‐western parts of the Limpopo Province. Coordinates of Senwane
Game Farm (house) is S 24°16.831’/ E 026°52.575’ (altitude of 870 m above mean sea level).
The farm Marico is located within the Limpopo Sweet Bushveld – SVcb 19 (L.Mucina & MC
Rutherford – The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland, 2006: SANBI), previously
the Arid Sweet Bushveld (Acocks 1953 & Low & Rebelo 1996), within the larger ‘Central
Bushveld’ & Savanna Biome, as well as Sweet & Mixed Bushveld Wildlife Ranching Region
(Game Ranch Management – Bothma & du Toit, 2010).
‐4‐ CLIMATE: With Senwane Game Farm located within the ‘Limpopo Sweet Bushveld’, the long‐term,
average rainfall and temperatures (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006) for this area is as follows:
Rainfall: Jan: 75 mm Feb: 60 mm Mch: 38 mm Apr: 20 mm May: 3 mm Jun: 0 mm Jul: 0 mm Aug: 0 mm Sep: 3 mm Oct: 20 mm Nov: 50 mm Dec: 65 mm The long‐term mean rainfall for this area is 500 mm. Temperature: (averages) Min: Max: (⁰C) Jan: 19.5 32 Feb: 19 31.5 Mch: 17 30 Apr: 12 27 May: 8 25 Jun: 5 22 Jul: 3 21 Aug: 6 24 Sep: 10 27 Oct: 14 29 Nov: 17 30.5 Dec: 19 31 The mean amount of frost days (minimum temperatures below 0⁰C) is 9 days.
(L Mucina & MC Rutherford – Vegetation of SA, Lesotho & Swaziland, 2006).
‐5‐
4. GOALS & OBJECTIVES: The main goal of this application for Senwane Game Farm is the introduction of the
following species for the purpose of intensive breeding into two enclosures of
approximately 20 Ha and 31 Ha respectively (with reference to attached map):
* Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger)
Objectives include:
‐ Purchasing a small, healthy representative breeding herd with an unrelated males of above
mentioned species, and relocating them into mentioned breeding enclosure of mentioned
size;
‐ Enforcing a rigorous and intensive long term supplementary feeding system within the
breeding enclosure to keep the animals in healthy condition;
‐ Monitoring the health of individuals at feeding & watering troughs on a daily basis;
‐ Following a strict parasite control & management system to keep animals in healthy
condition and minimise stress;
‐ Keep camps and feeding areas as hygienic as possible through daily inspections and
cleaning of feeding‐ & watering troughs;
‐ Immediate treatment of sick or injured animals through constant monitoring;
‐ Removal of problem individuals in camp to minimise stress levels as well as possible
injuries;
‐ Removal of sub‐dominant males from camp to limit possible injuries or deaths through
sexual dominance;
‐ Constant removal & exchange of males & females from enclosure to limit inbreeding;
‐ Exchange of males and females of mentioned species to increase the genetic diversity of
the specie in breeding enclosure and limiting inbreeding;
‐6‐
‐ The constant removal of surplus offspring for relocation into similar, legitimate breeding
projects;
‐ The re‐sale of offspring from production for relocation in other areas;
‐ Job‐creation for locals (development of infrastructure and daily care of animals).
‐7‐
5. VELD ASSESSMENT:
Grass monitoring: At Senwane Game Farm (proposed area) a foot‐point transect monitoring sampling system
was used in order to collect the grass species data. With this method, (Mentis 1981 – Veld
Management of SA – Tainton et al), four represented plots were completed in the proposed
enclosures. Every 2 meters (steps), the closest plant specie (grass, forb or Cyperus species) is
identified and recorded. After the two‐hundred meter transects had been completed, 100
identifications would have been recorded per transect, used to determine the overall grass
species composition on the farm portion.
Processing of grass‐monitoring data:
Two methods are used to process data collected from the veld:
‐ Ecological Status
‐ Ecological Index Method (Values)
1. Ecological Status:
Hereby all grasses are classified into specific groups according to the grass’s reaction on
being grazed (Troloppe et al):
‐ Decreasers: These grass species occur in, and are dominant in good veldt, but decrease in
numbers when veldt conditions deteriorate (overgrazing or miss‐management of veld)
‐ Increasers I: These grass species are dominant in bad veldt and increase in numbers with
under‐utilization or selective grazing.
‐ Increasers II: These grass species are dominant in bad veldt and increase in numbers with
over‐utilization (overgrazing)
(a = light / b = moderate / c = extensive)
‐ Forbs, Cyperus species & Weeds.
‐ Bare ground (if clear of vegetation in a radius of 50 cm)
‐8‐
2. Ecological Index Method:
Hereby each grass specie is awarded a certain value, depending on its grazing value and
ecological status (1‐ 10).Each monitoring point can attain a maximum value of 1 000, with a
minimum of 100.
According to J du P Bothma & JG du Toit (2010), the general values are as follows (though
certain species differ in value to the general ‘status’ values as given below):
Decreasers 7 ‐ 10
Increasers l 1 ‐ 7
Increasers lla & IIb 4 ‐ 7
Forbs & Cyperus spp. 4
Increasers IIc 1 ‐ 5
Bare Ground 0
Six transects of 100 points respectively were completed in the area, with a total of 600
recordings.
VEGETA
Monito
Fixed‐p
Transec
Vegetat
Basal gr
Crown c
Grass co
Forbs
Grazing
EIV:
Date of
ATION MON
ring point 1
hoto point:
ct:
tion:
rass cover:
cover:
omposition
g values:
f survey:
NITORING P
1:
: South‐w
North‐e
Reddish
includin
Tarchon
6%.
25%
: Of the
species
(1 spec
grasses
8%
Total a
species
410
08/04/2
POINTS:
westerly dir
east to sout
h sandy soi
ng Acacia
nathus parv
9 (nine) gra
s), Increaser
cies), Increa
s 47% (5 spe
amount of
s) is 45%, wi
2013
‐9‐
rection
th‐west
ils on flat l
erubesce
vicapitulatu
ass species
r l grasses 0
aser llb gra
ecies).
high & m
ith low graz
andscape w
ens, A. m
us
recorded,
0% (0 speci
asses 3% (
edium graz
zing value g
with domin
mellifera,
Decreasers
ies), Increas
1 species)
zing value
rasses 47%.
ant woody
Grewia fl
amount to
ser lla gras
and Incre
grasses (p
.
species
lava &
o 20% (2
ses 22%
easer llc
alatable
Monito
Fixed‐p
Transec
Vegetat
Basal gr
Crown c
Grass co
Forbs
Grazing
EIV:
Date of
ring point 2
hoto point:
ct:
tion:
rass cover:
cover:
omposition
g values:
f survey:
2:
: North‐e
South‐w
Reddish
includin
albitrun
7%.
32%
: Of the
species
(1 spec
grasses
8%
Total a
species
436
08/04/2
easterly dire
west to nort
h sandy soi
ng Acacia
nca & Tarch
10 (ten) gra
s), Increaser
cies), Increa
s 46% (4 spe
amount of
s) is 46%, wi
2013
‐10‐
ection
th‐east
ils on flat l
erubescen
honathus pa
ass species
r l grasses 0
aser llb gra
ecies).
high & m
ith low graz
andscape w
ns, A. tor
arvicapitula
recorded,
0% (0 speci
asses 3% (
edium graz
zing value g
with domin
rtillis, Grew
tus.
Decreasers
ies), Increas
2 species)
zing value
rasses 46%.
ant woody
wia flava,
amount to
ser lla gras
and Incre
grasses (p
.
species
Boscia
o 25% (3
ses 18%
easer llc
alatable
Monito
Fixed‐p
Transec
Vegetat
Basal gr
Crown c
Grass co
Forbs
Grazing
EIV:
Date of
ring point 3
hoto point:
ct:
tion:
rass cover:
cover:
omposition
g values:
f survey:
3:
: Northe
South ‐
Reddish
includin
albitrun
6%.
30%
: Of the
species
(1 spec
grasses
4%
Total a
species
343
08/04/2
rly directio
north
h sandy soi
ng Acacia
nca & Tarch
9 (nine) gr
s), Increaser
cies), Increa
s 51% (4 spe
amount of
s) is 45%, wi
2013
‐11‐
on
ils on flat l
erubescen
honathus pa
rass species
r l grasses 0
aser llb gra
ecies).
high & m
ith low graz
andscape w
ns, A. tor
arvicapitula
s recorded,
0% (0 speci
asses 6% (
edium graz
zing value g
with domin
rtillis, Grew
tus.
Decreasers
ies), Increas
2 species)
zing value
rasses 51%.
ant woody
wia flava,
s amount t
ser lla gras
and Incre
grasses (p
.
species
Boscia
o 9% (2
ses 30%
easer llc
alatable
Monito
Fixed‐p
Transec
Vegetat
Basal gr
Crown c
Grass co
Forbs
Grazing
EIV:
Date of
ring point 4
hoto point:
ct:
tion:
rass cover:
cover:
omposition
g values:
f survey:
4:
: Wester
East ‐ w
Reddish
includin
albitrun
6%.
25%
: Of the
species
(1 spec
grasses
8%
Total a
species
451
10/04/2
rly direction
west
h sandy soi
ng Acacia
nca & Tarch
9 (nine) gra
s), Increaser
cies), Increa
s 49% (5 spe
amount of
s) is 45%, wi
2013
‐12‐
n
ils on flat l
erubescen
honathus pa
ass species
r l grasses 0
aser llb gra
ecies).
high & m
ith low graz
andscape w
ns, A. tor
arvicapitula
recorded,
0% (0 speci
asses 0% (
edium graz
zing value g
with domin
rtillis, Grew
tus.
Decreasers
ies), Increas
0 species)
zing value
rasses 49%.
ant woody
wia flava,
amount to
ser lla gras
and Incre
grasses (p
.
species
Boscia
o 31% (3
ses 12%
easer llc
alatable
Monito
Fixed‐p
Transec
Vegetat
Basal gr
Crown c
Grass co
Forbs
Cyp spp
Grazing
EIV:
Date of
ring point 5
hoto point:
ct:
tion:
rass cover:
cover:
omposition
p.
g values:
f survey:
5:
: Wester
East ‐ w
Reddish
includin
parvica
6%.
29%
: Of the
species
(2 spec
grasses
1%
2%
Total a
species
351
10/04/2
rly direction
west
h sandy soi
ng Acacia m
apitulatus.
8 (eight) gr
s), Increaser
cies), Increa
s 59% (4 spe
amount of
s) is 38%, wi
2013
‐13‐
n
ils on flat l
mellifera, A.
rass species
r l grasses 0
aser llb gra
ecies).
high & m
ith low graz
andscape w
erioloba,
s recorded,
0% (0 speci
asses 0% (
edium graz
zing value g
with domin
Grewia flav
Decreasers
ies), Increas
0 species)
zing value
rasses 59%.
ant woody
va & Tarch
s amount to
ser lla gras
and Incre
grasses (p
.
species
onathus
o 18% (2
ses 20%
easer llc
alatable
Monito
Fixed‐p
Transec
Vegetat
Basal gr
Crown c
Grass co
Forbs
Grazing
EIV:
Date of
ring point 6
hoto point:
ct:
tion:
rass cover:
cover:
omposition
g values:
f survey:
6:
: Easterly
West ‐
Reddish
includin
5%.
27%
: Of the
species
species
58% (4
12%
Total a
species
348
10/04/2
y direction
east
h sandy soi
ng Acacia m
8 (eight) gr
s), Increaser
s), Increaser
species).
amount of
s) is 30%, wi
2013
‐14‐
ils on flat l
mellifera, A.
rass species
r l grasses 0
r llb grasses
high & m
ith low graz
andscape w
erioloba, G
s recorded,
0% (0 specie
s 3% (1 spec
edium graz
zing value g
with domin
Grewia flava
Decreasers
es), Increase
cies) and In
zing value
rasses 58%.
ant woody
a & A. erube
s amount to
er lla grasse
ncreaser llc
grasses (p
.
species
escens
o 19% (2
es 8% (1
c grasses
alatable
‐19‐
PROJECT – PROPOSAL: PROJECT LEADER: Name: Mr F. de Jager Address: Senwane Game Farm Farm Marico Rooibokkraal PO Box 1461 Honeydew, 2040 Sel: 0833950113 Fax: 011 6751106 Email: [email protected] CO‐WORKERS: Name: Mr Arno Jansen Address: Senwane Game Farm Farm Marico Rooibokkraal PO Box Sel: 0823829655
‐20‐
PROJECT‐DESCRIPTION: Background: Senwane Game Farm (portion 1) had historically been partly used for cattle grazing (camps),
as well as for indigenous game (mostly hunting). Plains game species had over time been
introduced into the farm, with mostly the common species such as Impala, Kudu and Blue
wildebeest being hunted on a regular basis. Four camps (enclosures) had been constructed
on the farm, as per enclosed map, for the purpose of cattle farming (rotating grazing
system). An area of approximately 9 Ha had also been camped off for the purpose of
growing lucerne as supplementary feeding for the cattle and game.
With Aquarella Investments (Company) having purchased Senwane Game Farm, two of the
camps (enclosures) having been closed off with 2.4m game fence will be left as is, and
utilised for the proposed breeding of Sable antelope.
With Marico Farm falling within the natural, historical distribution of Sable antelope, the
farm could be used effectively for the production and export and re‐introduction into other
areas (breeding projects) of healthy individuals of these species.
Necessity of project:
According to D Fustenburg, 2007, the area of Marico (proposed breeding project area) falls
within the historical distribution area of the Sable antelope. With that in mind, as well as the
natural vegetation of the area at Marico Farm, being open savanna with thickets for
protection, and further bush‐thinning planned by Mr de Jager, the mentioned species
should do very well in the intensive breeding facilities, with the management of the animals
as recommended.
With conservative amounts of Sable antelope introduced in camp systems such as proposed
for Marico, the natural habitat should be maintained and sustainable, more so than with
cattle grazing or any other agricultural activity.
With the increase of Sable antelope in numbers that could be obtained, and the eventual
introduction of part of the production (surplus) into other areas, particularly for intensive
breeding purposes, helping with the eco‐tourism industry for the area, bringing in much
needed foreign and local income, as well as job creation.
‐21‐
With healthy and wise intensive breeding management, much needed diversification of the
current gene‐pool could be reached.
With the main focus on of sustainable utilisation of the environment and natural resources,
as well as looking at environmental threats and biodiversity loss due to over exploitation of
these resources, impact of invasive and exotic vegetation and general loss of habitat due to
mining, agriculture and human settlement, captive breeding (with high welfare standards)
of rare and endangered species can play a major role in conservation and survival of species.
Captive facilities can contribute to conservation actions, promotion of scientific knowledge
generation and the provision of expertise in the care of animal collections in collaboration
with captive facilities such as zoos (A. Kotze et al – The role of captive facilities in wildlife
ranching, 2011). The survival of species may depend on these captive facilities generating
scientific knowledge of specific species, such as the European Bison that was brought back
from near‐extinction to a small healthy population, currently ensuring the survival of that
specie.
The data able to collect from these facilities may contribute to information critical to the
survival and maintenance of genetic diversity and the viability of species in or outside their
natural habitat. Private wildlife farmers can provide facilities to generate information that
help in the long‐term improvement of breeding programmes and needs for certain species
that had become rare and endangered.
As part of the United Nations’ program to address the impact of humans on the
environment, Agenda 21 was adopted as an initiative of the 1992 United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development (Rio de Janeiro). This is a comprehensive plan
of action to be taken globally, nationally and locally in all areas where humans impact on the
environment, with education and public awareness key components of virtually all areas of
this Agenda. Captive facilities have a responsibility in terms of Agenda 21 to contribute to
the achievement of environmental and development of awareness in all sectors of society
as soon as possible. Captive facilities are uniquely positioned to breach the gap between
people and the natural world through the creation of learning experiences that raise
awareness of environmental threats and biodiversity loss (A Kotze et al ‐ The role of captive
facilities in wildlife ranching, 2011).
‐22‐
METHODS: With reference to enclosed Map 2, Illustrations 1 & 2 within this document.
1. Two enclosures of approximately 20 Ha and 31 Ha each are proposed at Senwane Game
Farm, enclosures constructed by previous owner for the introduction of the said species
(Sable antelope);
2. The enclosures will be constructed with an open, cleared area where passive capture
bomas for intensive supplementation, parasite management and darting and care of
individual animals will take place. Supplementary feeding will be done under roof to protect
against unnecessary water mixing in with pellets or salt licks and/or game blocks.
Supplementary feeding will include dry lucerne, game pellets or game blocks, which will be
systematically be added to their daily feeding;
3. Parasite management will also be done within these areas, making use of ‘dip‐feeding
troughs’, combining supplementary feeding and parasite management. Ivomac will be made
available to the animals on a 3‐monthly basis for the management of internal parasites such
as tape‐ or roundworms & nematodes, known to infest animals in intensive conditions, with
Aloe‐blocks for the control of external parasites;
4. For the control and management of coccidiosis (if at all necessary), Amprol or Baycol will
be added to the drinking water of the animals. Clean drinking water will be supplied to the
animals within the smaller holding facility in cement troughs, which will be cleaned and
filled on a daily basis. Drinkphos or Waterphos will also be added to the drinking water on a
regular basis to provide for the shortage of phosphorus in their natural vegetation;
5. Small breeding herds of approximately 6 individuals will be introduced into the proposed
enclosures;
6. With successful increase in numbers of species, the progeny (production) will, after
weaning, be caught and moved to other location (registered breeding projects);
7. At the feeding points, where supplementary feeding will take place, all individuals will be
inspected on a daily basis for possible injuries or illnesses, where they could be treated by
the local vet and possible kept in isolation;
8. De‐worming of animals kept in these facilities will, if symptoms recognised, be done by
immobilising individuals (Vet) and treating them with either Zenopver, Ivomec or Dectomax,
as prescribed;
‐23‐
9. With the shortages of iron, iron‐sulphate will be added to the supplementary feeding (salt
licks), as well as Sulkopro from shortages in copper;
10. With a relative shortage in bulk in the winter, extra lucerne will be made available to
supplement for the shortages;
11. In the summer months energy supplements will be made in the form of maize, grain,
sorghum & oats.
‐24‐
FACILITIES:
‐ Fences:
The enclosures are fenced off with standard game fence as for game exemption purposes,
to a height of 2.4 metres (21 strands). The fences are strengthened with Diamond mesh
from ground to a height of 1.2 meters to keep vagrant animals outside, and limiting game
inside from crawling from the enclosed areas.
Straining posts 100m apart, Y‐standards 20m apart and droppers 2 apart on average.
Perimeter fences are electrified at heights of 300mm and 800mm on the inside of
enclosures, limiting the escape of animals from enclosures.
Between proposed enclosures a corridor area of at least 10 meters will be constructed,
though fence height only 1.8 m.
‐ Bomas:
In the enclosures bomas are intended to be constructed for introduction of animals, passive
capture, supplementary feeding purposes as well as darting of individuals and or surplus
animals when necessary. Under‐roof facilities will be supplied within the area, with cement
flooring and feeding troughs to keep out rainwater and keep supplementary feeding dry.
Parasite management will be done with the help of dip‐feeding troughs, kept under roof to
limit diluting of agents due to rainwater.
Size of bomas intended to be approximately 400m² each, with sliding gates connecting all
bomas with one another. Shelters in each boa to be approximately 30² in floor size, built on
a cement flooring, with a roof of 3m high. Each boma will have an entrance/exit gate
into/from the larger enclosure, sliding gate of approximately 3m in width.
‐ Water:
Cement water troughs will be placed within the bomas, which will be cleaned and filled on a
daily basis. These troughs will be used for supplementing water for parasite management
and supplementary feeding (necessary nutrients), other than the normal uses. These
troughs will be placed in the vicinity of the feeding areas to ease daily inspections of the
game visiting the area.
Open water pans will be added into the enclosure areas, particularly for the Sable antelope
who prefer open water.
‐25‐
OTHER INFORMATION: ‐ Legal acquisition:
Species being proposed for intensive breeding at Marico Farm (portion 1) will be bought
from organised game dealers and auctions such as Mpatamacha, Waterberg Game Dealers,
Thaba tholo, Trophy Breeders, etc.
Many of the proposed species are legally bred and sold by many game dealers and private
game breeders such as Lumari – Rooiberg (Jaques Malan) & Thaba Tholo (Thabazimbi).
‐ Vets:
The Game Veterinarian to be used for the purpose at Marico would be:
Dr Raman Marais (Lephalale) : 0769334676
‐26‐
NAME & ADDRESS OF HOLDER OF PERMIT: ‐ Mr Fredere de Jager Senwane Game Lodge P.O.Box 1461 Honeydew 2040 NAME OF BUSINESS: ‐ DJ farmer SPECIES & NUMBERS OF GAME FOR WHICH PERMIT IS APPLIED FOR: ‐ Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger niger) ‐ 10 PROPERTY WHERE PROJECT WILL BE LOCATED: ‐ Marico 20 KQ (portion 1) TIME FOR WHICH PERMIT IS APPLIED FOR: ‐ 3 Years. RELEVANT CONTACT DETAILS: ‐ Mr F de Jager Sel: 0833950113 Email: [email protected]
‐ Mr A Jansen Sel: 0823829655 Email:
‐27‐ CONSULTANT CONTACT DETAILS: Mr David S. Lotter
Themeda Game Farm Services
31 Coral Ridge
Bon Cretion Street
Pomona
1619
Tel: 011‐9735144
Sel: 0798715444
Fax: 0865474814
Email: [email protected]
‐28‐
SABLE ANTELOPE (Hippotragus niger) MANAGEMENT:
A few basic features of the Sable antelope includes: ‐ Average weight of adult ♂: 230 kg ‐ Average weight of adult ♀: 210 kg ‐ Feeding spectrum: Grass (medium – tall grass) ‐ 85% Leaves & fruit ‐ 15% ‐ Water requirements: 9 litres/day Sable need permanent water resources, though less important in intensive breeding circumstances ‐ Age when sexually mature: ♂ - 5 to 6 years ♀ - 2+ years - Peak mating season: May – July ‐ Gestation period: 230 – 240 days ‐ Peak birth season: January – March (Limpopo) ‐ Average age of ♀ with birth of first calf: 3 years ‐ Average weaning age: 240 days ‐ Time between successive calves: 12 months ‐ Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years (in captivity as high as 20 years – Jones 1983) ‐ Mean annual population growth: 20% (higher in captivity) ‐ Dressing percentage: 55% ‐ Sable antelope in their natural environment have the ability to produce calves up to the age of 12 years, and could produce 10 calves in a lifetime (in ideal circumstances) Bulls older than 10 years become post‐reproductive. ‐ In natural conditions (free‐ranging) the mortality rate of Sable calves can be as high as 64% ‐ Rowland Ward minimum trophy size: 1 070 mm (42 inches) ‐ Rowland Ward record trophy size: 1 543 mm (60.75 inches) (JC Kriek , 2005)
‐29‐ INTENSIVE PRODUCTION: Sable antelope have been produced quite successfully in intensive breeding programs by
private game farmers with production figures as high as 100% on a regular basis (Landbou
weekblad, 2008). With experience it had been found that Sable do extremely well in areas
of 30 Ha to 100 Ha in size. There are however certain aspects in the keeping of Sable
antelope that need to be kept in mind, and should be managed ‘intensively’:
Disadvantages:
‐ Internal parasites may increase in large numbers due to individuals living in close quarters,
and should be managed by regular egg‐counts and de‐worming;
‐ Natural selection is limited by keeping animals in these ‘unnatural’ conditions, and is then
decided by humans. In natural conditions the most dominant bull would decide the
production and increase of genetics. It is therefore important to select young, strong and
healthy bulls as breeding bulls. Constant monitoring is necessary to ensure the ability of the
breeding bull to continue production at a healthy rate.
‐ Mortalities of young bulls older than 15 months in these intensive breeding enclosures will
increase if they are not removed at that age due to aggressive, dominant bulls. In natural
conditions younger bulls of 30 months and older will be chased off, though in small
intensive enclosures the young bulls cannot escape and will be killed by breeding bull.
‐ The animals in the smaller enclosures become totally dependant on humans for their
feeding and nutritional needs, and their digestive systems eventually adapt to it. These
animals therefore adapt very difficult to natural environment where no supplementary
feeding is given.
‐ Because the natural habitat for free‐roaming Sable antelope varies between 200 to 400 Ha
on average, depending on availability of water and grazing, the animals in small enclosures
of between 30 and 100 Ha experience stress, which could lead to cytauzoönosis, due to a
decrease in natural resistance. This in particular is caused by a parasite, of which a tick is the
carrier, and therefore the importance of managing ticks (and other external parasites) in
enclosures.
‐ Accidental fires need to be limited as far as possible within enclosures of this size, and may
cause high rates in mortality when they do occur due to limited chances of escape, also due
to limited time to react to these accidental fires.
‐30‐
Advantages:
‐ The dangers of natural predation on particularly young animals can be limited to the
minimum if fences of enclosures are constructed as prescribed. This is probably the biggest
reason for most game farmers to keep Sable antelope in these conditions, rather than free‐
roaming.
‐ Game (individuals) may be inspected on a daily basis for monitored for diseases, general
condition and possible injuries, which could then be reacted upon as soon as possible and
limit losses due to time lost.
‐ Individuals such as young bulls that become sexually mature can be moved from
enclosures before trouble starts with dominant breeding bulls, with very little difficulty, and
mortalities limited as such.
‐ Game may be maintained in good condition throughout the year, rather than them having
to increase their condition when the growing season starts, which helps to lessen stress and
increase chances of production.
‐ Due to a decrease in stress in these animals kept in captivity, and a decrease in
competition for food and territory as well as limited predation, animals in captivity usually
become much older and are able to give birth at a somewhat later age. In most of the
ungulates in free‐roaming game the older individuals die due to their teeth wearing out and
them actually dying of hunger, whereas animals in captivity are fed special diets to keep
them alive and increase production rates.
‐31‐
FACILITIES:
A few aspects with regards to the locality of enclosures and bomas, as well as materials
used, must be taken into consideration when placing out and constructing these facilities:
‐ The holding boma (if decided upon) should be constructed on a level area as much as
possible. Drainage (rainwater, drinking water, water from cleaning the boma) should be as
such to prevent mud baths within the boma area, and rather to run off away from enclosure
and boma.
‐ Due to damage that termites could cause, all wooden poles used should be SABS‐
approved, whether creosote or tanalith‐treated poles used. Tanalith is preferred to creosote
due to effect of creosote on certain game species.
‐ Bomas should be constructed in such a way that animals may be protected against cold
winds in the winter months, particularly in grassland (Highveld) areas.
‐ All facilities should be constructed as far away from noise as possible, such as busy roads,
compounds, airfields, and such. Particularly with newly introduced animals the quieter it is
the better they tend to adapt to new environments, and stress levels decrease.
‐ All sharp objects or objects that may cause injuries should be removed from bomas and/or
enclosures before new individuals are introduced. The animals are usually nervous and
bewildered and tend to run against and up walls to escape, and will injure themselves if
sharp objects get in the way. It is also therefore recommended to close sides with hessian
the first few days to prevent them seeing too much outside of the bomas. The hessian
should be fastened to the sides in such a way the wind doesn’t cause a lot of flapping and
noise, which will fluster the animals.
‐ The enclosure should have enough open areas (savanna) as well as thick stands of
vegetation for cover against severe elements (cold, hot, rain, etc).
‐ The perimeter fences should be strong enough to keep Sables in the enclosure, and
particularly the bottom 1.2 m to keep them from crawling under fences, as Sables tend to
do. It should also help in limiting the entry of predators into the enclosure, such as Caracal,
Jackal and such, as well as high enough to keep jumping game species outside, such as Kudu,
Eland, Waterbuck and Impala (2.4m).
‐32‐
‐ Minimum sizes of bomas 20m², though larger preferred.
‐ Walls of bomas should be 2.4m or higher, and constructed of a good material such as
round wooden poles, with enough space between poles to allow for ventilation and sight,
though close enough to limit chances of their horns getting stuck (no more than 15mm).
‐ Within the bomas there should be enough shelter against rain and for shade. At least one‐
third of the area should be under roof, preferably a solid roof and large enough for animals
to be allowed free movement. Roof should be at least 3m high to limit injuries if bulls decide
to start copulating on the spot. All rainwater should be made to run off away from boa to
limit the build‐up of water in the boa, which will cause discomfort and diseases such as foot‐
rot, pneumonia and airway‐infections.
‐ All passages in bomas should be no less than 1m wide, though not more than 2m. At
strategic places in these passages there should be ladders in place for emergency purposes
(handlers), though placed in such a way that horns could not get stuck and cause injuries to
the animals.
‐ Bomas should have trough that could be filled from outside of the bomas, with inner sides
approximately 0.5 x 0.5 x 1m, with rounded sides to prevent injuries, and able to carry at
least 50 litres at a time (clean water). These troughs need to be cleaned daily, and could be
installed with a ball‐and‐valve system to ensure there is always enough water for the
animals.
‐ The water should be constructed away from the feeding area to ensure dry food at all
times. The feeding troughs should also be able to be filled from outside of the bomas.
‐ Bomas should be cleaned on a regular basis, and if possible animals should have another
boma area to be moved into while boma is being cleaned.
‐ Before first Sables are introduced into bomas, fresh food and water should be made
available in bomas.
‐ Observation or inspection windows should be made available for the purpose, and should
be made to be opened and closed with the minimum amount of noise. Any person closing in
on the boa where Sables are present should talk or sing or whistle softly to prevent startling
animals if not seen until the last moment.
‐33‐
FEEDING & CARE:
‐ Most game species will for the first time, after being introduced, not touch food due to
stress. They need to be given time to adapt to their new environment, sounds and smells,
and should be left to do so in peace, with as little noise as possible.
‐ Sable antelope, particularly individuals of the same family being introduced, tend not to be
too aggressive with one another, though with mixed family groups it is essential to put
plastic pipes on their horns before intruding them into the same area.
‐ It is particularly important to know the history of the animals with regards to
supplementary feeding they would have received and are used to previously. In case the
animals are not used to game pellets, they could get ‘acidosis’ if fed too much from the
start, and could kill them, as their digestive systems would not be used to it. They then
need to be given game pellets in smaller amounts when starting off, and increasing amounts
with time.
‐ In the case of Sables coming from an ‘open’, free‐roaming system, they should be given a
combination of cut grass‐hay, which could later be mixed with lucerne and teff. After a while
game pellets could be mixed with the lucerne and teff, in smaller amounts at first, and
increased with time. As soon as diarrhoea is noticed in animals, game pellets should be
decreased in amounts until diarrhoea stops, after which pellets can then be added again in
smaller amounts.
‐ With the introduction of animals into the bomas, all supplementary feeding needs to put in
the middle of the boa at first, due to the animals’ tendency to run around the perimeter of
the boma and climbing up the walls, thus limiting them stepping into food and wasting it.
‐ Fresh water needs to be present at all times, and should be supplemented with dissolved
vitamines and electrolytes to stimulate animals’ appetite, particularly within the first week
of introduction. With some animals that may not be used to drinking from a trough or crib,
they may at first be careful to drink, and thus important to limit unnecessary noise around
the area. Troughs should preferably be filled without entering boma, and should be filled
with a pipe from a distance. Some animals tend to drink at night, and troughs should thus be
filled before night‐time, though a ball‐and‐valve system works well to counter problems.
‐ Individuals that still do not eat after the first two days or so will lose condition very quickly,
and should be moved to another boma to be inspected and treated by a Vet. It is therefore
important to know a Vet in the area that could help in such emergencies.
‐34‐
‐ Game should preferably be injected with a sedative before being transported and
introduced into new surroundings. From experience it is known that such animals tend to
adapt to new surroundings much faster than animals not sedated beforehand. A qualified
Vet needs to be responsible for this, or at least be present when done.
‐ If possible only one or two persons should be made responsible for all feeding and cleaning
from day one. The animals should be made used to these persons’ voices and smells, and is
thus important for them to always talk or whistle when nearing the bomas from a distance,
so as not to frighten animals when suddenly appearing. With visitors these persons should
always be present, and also be heard from a distance. Feeding and cleaning should be done
at certain, scheduled times, thus getting animals into a routine and helping them adapt
better. The person(s) responsible for these duties need to be trained well if unexperienced,
and they should be made aware of their importance to the project, as well as all dangers
and possible scenarios with regards to Sable antelope.
Commercial suppliers:
‐ Wes Game Feeds (Thabazimbi)
014‐7771330
‐ Safari Feeds (Hammanskraal)
012‐7110841
‐ Voermol (Maidstone)
0800310078
0834145928
032‐4395599
‐ Virbac RSA
Halfway House
012‐6576000
‐ ALZU Wildvoere
013‐2466603
‐35‐
DAILY INSPECTIONS:
As mentioned earlier, it is good policy for one or two persons only to take responsibility of
the Sable antelope being introduced from day one, with regards to the feeding and cleaning
of bomas and enclosures, as well as daily inspections. These daily inspections need to be
reported to the owner or manager, in case neither of them are present when inspections
are done. The following aspects are important at such inspections:
‐ Inspection of individual animals, looking at their general condition and health;
‐ See if all individuals eat and drink, and if they urinate and defecate;
‐ Any individual with diarrhoea should be removed from the group and moved to another
holding pen or enclosure;
‐ Look at general behaviour of all animals, and note aggressive, nervous or any abnormal
behaviour. These individuals should also be moved to a separate holding pen for further
inspections.
‐ Inspect for any injuries, sores or abnormal skin conditions that need to treated as soon as
possible;
‐ Inspect for quantity and quality of available food and water within bomas or enclosures,
which should be done twice daily;
‐ Make sure bomas are cleaned on a daily basis and old unused material removed and
dumped far from enclosures/bomas. As soon as cleaning is done, animals need to be moved
back to original boa/holding pen, unless too wet or muddy;
‐ In case of mortalities, carcasses should be removed as soon as possible with the least
disturbance possible. Carcasses should be placed in cold room for the purpose of a post‐
mortem to determine death.
‐36‐
DISEASES & PARASITES:
‐ Sable antelope (healthy animals) tend to have a relative good resistance to diseases such
cytauxzoonosis and anthrax. If there is (had been) anthrax in the area, it be recommended
the animals be inoculated every two to three years. Signs of anthrax include sudden deaths
of animals without any sure signs; depression and loss of appetite; bloody excretion from
organs such as nose and anus; swollen skin of particularly the throat. It is very important
that in cases where anthrax is suspected, carcasses under no circumstance be cut open, due
to danger of spores spreading from carcass when infected. These carcasses need to be
burned as soon as possible, though if a Vet is close to have a post‐mortem done by him. It is
known for anthrax to spread by animals chewing old bones picked up in the veld, usually
due a shortage of phosphate in the natural environment and food they have available,
which should be supplemented.
‐ In cases where animals are kept in bomas for longer than three weeks, it is recommended
to treat them for coccidiosis every two to three weeks. This happens particularly when their
natural resistance weakens. Signs of coccidiosis includes diarrhoea, particularly when it
becomes bloody. When this does happen, dung should be tested for oosists, in which case
the counts will be high. Toltrazuril is used to treat coccidiosis, though as precaution
amprolium and monensin should be added to their feed. Good hygiene prevents coccidiosis
to a greater extent.
‐ Internal parasites can become a problem in Sable antelope kept in enclosures smaller than
100 Ha. Infection occurs due to nematodes (wire‐worms – Haemonchus), which causes
anaemia and eventually the death of the animal. De‐worming has to be done by darting
(immobilising) the animals and injecting them with Zenopver (1ml per 20kg body weight),
and Ivomec or Dectomax (1ml per 50kg body weight). Dectomax and Zenopver may be
used in combination. ‘Worm‐licks’ may help to prevent internal parasites, as well as adding
Browse‐plus to their drinking water (troughs). Animals need to be made used to their
normal licks before adding anything similar to their licks for the internal parasites, to get
them used to utilising these licks. The same method needs to be used if adding the products
to their game pellets.
‐ Certain fungi have been found affecting Sable antelope and Roan antelope, such as the
micosis ‘Dermatophylis’, which causes a wet skin infection where hair tend to stick together.
This condition tends to spread in wet conditions, where flies and ticks help the spread
thereof. In drier conditions this micosis is limited in it’s ability to spread. Fungi tend to occur
more in game in captivity, and is thus important to limit and manage wet conditions.
‐37‐
‐ Though the chances of Sable antelope to incur Heartwater, it is good to know the signs. In
South Africa it is caused by the ‘bontbosluis’, with signs thereof including oversensitivity of
the animal, shallow and short breathing, aggressive behaviour, nervous behaviour such as
them rubbing their teeth together constantly, quick eye‐movements and constant muscle‐
spasms.
‐ Red‐water fever is also caused by ticks, as had been found in Sable antelope. Affected
game get high fever and show signs of anaemia.
‐ Salmonellosis (bacteria of the Salmonella genus) usually affects young animals and make
them sick. The bacteria is ingested through the mouth and then spreads quite quickly to the
digestive system where it causes diarrhoea. It then spreads throughout the body and may
cause death. In the case where an animal survives this, it (bacteria) tends to stay in it’s
intestines, particularly the gall bladder, and then spreads further by being excreted in the
dung from time to time. Animals in captivity in particular tend to get infected, and is thus
important to have any individual with diarrhoea tested and treated as soon as possible. This
bacteria is sensitive to chloramphincol, though is not generally used.
Feeding causes:
‐ The biggest cause of death in game species where food is involved is quality and quantity.
Herbivores in general need 2kg quality food per 100kg body weight per day, which should
include enough protein, carbohydrates, fat and water.
‐ Protein shortages cause weight‐loss in animals, and shortages during pregnancy leads to
small, weak or still‐born calves. Carbohydrate is needed for energy, and with shortages
thereof ketosis can occur, when the animals’ body fat is mobilised to produce the necessary
energy.
Mineral‐shortages:
‐ Calcium and phosphate shortages may cause bone structure problems, teeth problems as
well as decreased horn‐growth. To ensure good intake of calcium and phosphate 1.2 to 2
parts calcium per 1 part phosphate needs to be present. In South Africa there is a general
shortage in phosphate, and needs to be supplemented particularly for the maintenance of
micro‐organisms in the rumen of the animals. Shortages thereof may lead to osteoporosis
and a general loss in weight, lameness and decreased fertility. Too much phosphate on the
other side causes stones in the bladder and softening of the bones.
‐38‐
‐ Magnesium shortages cause hypersensitivity towards sounds and touch, depression,
muscle spasms and cramps, and can particularly occur in animals that were hand‐raised. Too
much thereof can cause mortality.
‐ Shortages in Iron cause salivary glands of the mouth and eyes to become light, the animals
becomes weak, breaths shallow and fast, and become quite susceptible to bacterial
infections. Iron is necessary in animals in the formation of haemoglobin that causes the red
colour in blood.
‐ Copper is necessary in game for the forming of healthy tissue, hair, hooves and bone.
Shortages in copper may lead to anaemia, diarrhoea, change in hair colour, lameness and
sometimes weak hearts.
‐ Selenium shortages cause white muscle disease which has almost the same symptoms as
capture myopathy, probably the most common diagnosed feeding disease in game. Too
much thereof causes loss of hair on the tail end, hooves coming off and deformed calves.
‐ Shortage in zink usually occurs when animals are fed a lesser quality lucerne, except when
there is also a shortage of it in the soil. Zink is an enzyme‐activator and important
component of insulin. Too much calcium in the diet of animals causes limited intake of zink,
and should be prevented.
‐39‐ MANAGEMENT OF CALVES IN CAPTIVITY: Mainly two methods are used to raise and manage Sable antelope calves in captivity:
‐ In calves being hand‐raised by bottle, hygiene is very important. Milk being fed needs to be
done at body temperature, with protein and fat content increased by adding the yellow of
two eggs and 40ml of cream to every 500ml of milk (cow‐milk).
‐ By using a foster‐mother, such as a Jersey cow, the success tends to be high due to the
calves drinking directly from the ‘mother’.
Due to underdevelopment of cows’ udders that don’t produce milk, or a cows’ udder that
had dried up due to shortage in food or drought, and even due to mastitis which makes it
painfull to drink at, it is sometimes necessary to raise a calve by hand or have it raised by a
foster‐mother.
Any young calve needs colostrum from the mother’s milk that ensures it builds up a natural
resistance to diseases, as well as intake of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamines and minerals.
Calves that don’t get colostrum shortly after birth don’t develop as well as calves that do.
Calves need to get the colostrums within 36 hours after birth to development the resistance
against diseases, and the colostrum stimulates the intestines to ease the first defecation.
Calves may receive colostrum from cows or goats, and it is also possible to receive
colostrums from the milk of cows that had been frozen in bags of 500ml in freezer for
emergencies. When it becomes necessary, the milk should be defrosted slowly, and then fed
to the calf at body temperature. If colostrum is not available, it can be replaced by a
multivitamin syrup such as Viaylin, Mulgatol, Clusivol, Adamol or Combivite.
There is a common misconception that the milk of a milk‐cow needs to diluted when given
to game, with the opposite that needs to be done, as described above (cream and eggs).
There are a few golden rules that need to be looked at when raising calves, and include:
‐ One person should be made responsible (and take responsibility) for raising such
animals, when necessary, and needs to be well‐informed about what needs to be
done;
‐ Milk should always be given at body‐temperature (38⁰C);
‐ The first few days the calf needs to be housed in a quiet, safe and warm
environment. After the first few days the calf may be moved to a holding facility,
though shade is still important for hotter parts of the day. The calf may then be
taken to it’s warmer facility in the late afternoon when it starts to cool down;
‐40‐
‐ Clean and fresh water needs to be available at all times;
‐ Hygiene is important;
‐ If the umbilical cord of the calf is still wet, it needs to be cleaned with a light iodine
mixture a few times;
‐ Use a teat that will work for Sable antelope, usually a 100mm teat, and ensure the
right amounts and mixtures are taken each time;
‐ Force‐feeding is necessary if the calf doesn’t take milk or food voluntarily, as it will
die within 3 days if not. A finger needs to inserted between the animal’s lips on the
one side of the mouth, where the teat is then to be inserted. The gums need to
massaged lightly, after which the milk is then poured in drop by drop from the
bottle. The person feeding should constantly talk to the animal (softly) while
feeding and rubbing it’s back and tail. The person should ensure that no milk gets
into it’s lungs, as this will cause pneumonia;
‐ Force feeding should be done with patience. When the calf doesn’t take the milk at
first, it should be given time to relax for a while before attempting again. It is just as
important the calf does not drink too much, as this is as dangerous as under‐
feeding;
‐ After 10 to 14 days the calf can be taught to drink from a bucket;
‐ Calved drink approximately 10 – 15% of their body weight on a daily basis (approx 1
litre of milk per 10kg body weight/day). This volume needs to be divided into at
least 4 ‘feedings’ per day. A calf needs to start with approximately 60ml milk per 10
kg body weight per feeding, after which it could be increased slowly;
‐ All milk for the particular day should preferably be mixed on the same day. Milk
kept in the fridge for later feeding, needs to heated to body temperature (35 ‐
38⁰C).
‐ As calves get older their feeding concentrates can be upgraded to calf maize and a
good quality fresh and dry lucerne, as well as vegetables in small amounts;
‐ Quality time should be spent stimulating the calf to urinate and defecate. Young
bulls need to be stimulated under it’s tail and at the top of it’s penis with a warm
cloth, whereas a young cow only under it’s tail. This needs to be done during or
directly after feeding.
‐ The calves usually wean after approximately 3 months. When this time comes
closer, the amounts of milk need to be decreased, and the animal needs to get
access to more solid foods such as lucerne and grass.
(No responsibility will be taken by author due to mortalities if procedures as mentioned are
followed, and this only used as a basis, as many circumstances may change during
processes. It is important to consult a qualified Vet to ensure good results)
‐41‐
PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS WITH REGARDS TO SABLE ANTELOPE IN ENCLOSURES:
The time it takes newly‐introduced Sable to adapt will depend on a few factors, which
include the circumstances under which they were caught in the first place; their time of
keeping in captivity in previous facilities as well as those circumstances; their general
condition before and during transportation; whether animals were drugged or not, with
transport or at offloading in enclosures. Due to so many unsure circumstances before
offloading and establishment of animals on the farm, it is very important that circumstances
with offloading and introduction of animals be as ideal as possible to minimise stress and
limit time for them to adapt to new environment.
From the time the first animal is offloaded from the vehicles into the boma or enclosure, it
becomes the responsibility of the owner and/or manager to start looking and noting
individual behaviour of animals, as some animals under stress conditions such as these can
act aggressive, erratic and become unsure of their movements. In the case of individuals
from two different family groups, particularly bulls, they need to separated to limit injuries.
These animals need to be kept apart for a day or two until they have calmed enough to start
eating, which is usually a good sign.
Two separate family groups to be introduced need to be kept apart from day one, though
separate breeding bulls need to be introduced with the females as soon as possible. The
enclosures of the two different breeding groups need to be separated by a corridor of at
least 20 metres to lessen stress between neighbouring bulls.
If, after initial introduction of breeding groups into the bomas, the animals show signs of
relaxing and limited stress, they need to be introduced into the enclosures. The idea is to
get the animals to move freely between the holding pens (bomas) where they will be fed on
a daily basis, as well as monitored, and the larger enclosures where they will spend most of
their time grazing, etc. If two family groups had been introduced, it is of utmost importance
to keep the groups apart to limit stress and injuries due to infighting.
In time it becomes very important to remove young bulls from the age of 12 to 15 months
from the breeding groups, to separate holding areas or enclosures. Due to limited area for
escape in enclosures of 30 – 100 Ha, the dominant bull will eventually kill the younger bulls.
Younger females from the age of 2 years also need to be removed from breeding groups if
the breeding bull is to stay on, to limit inbreeding, unless the breeding bull is replaced on a
constant basis (every 2 years). It is therefore important to have good record keeping of
‐42‐
individuals in enclosures to ensure good management of necessary removal and/or adding
of individuals.
The teeth of Sable antelope individuals from the age of 10 to 12 years become worn out,
and as a result start having problems eating. In free‐roaming animals, these individuals will
eventually die of starvation, if not caught by predators, though in intensive breeding
conditions can be kept alive much longer through special diets. It is known that females
have been kept alive to the age of 20 years, still bearing calves. These individuals are fed a
diet of lucerne and game pellets, and usually kept separate to ensure they get their daily
intake.
Bulls of that age become post‐reproductive, though become valuable for the trophy hunting
industry, and are hunted as such.
‐43‐ BIBLIOGRAPHY: ‐ BOTHMA , J DU P. & VAN ROOYEN, N. (2006). Intensive Wildlife Production in southern Africa. ‐ BOTHMA. J DU P. (2004). Game Ranch Management. ‐ FURSTENBURG, D (2007) – Wildlife Ranching.com ‐ MUCINA, L & RUTHERFORD, MC (2006) – The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland: SANBI ‐ OBEREM, P & P. (2011). Guide to Animal Diseases in South Africa (Game). ‐ SMITHERS, H.N (1983). Mammals of the southern African subregion. ‐ TAINTON, N. (1999). Veld Management in South Africa. ‐ VAN OUTZHOORN, F. (2006). Guide to Grasses of southern Africa.