Springbuck Comparison: Black, Common, Copper and White

Characteristic Springbuck White Springbuck Copper Springbuck Black Springbuck Common
Coloration White with a light tan/brown saddle; very distinct and often sought after for its unique, striking appearance. Rich copper-colored coat with a darker saddle, giving it a distinctive warm, reddish hue. Dark brown to black coloration, with a similar appearance to the Common Springbok but darker and more contrasting. Tan to reddish-brown with white underparts and a white face stripe, the classic and most commonly seen coloration.
Horn Shape Thin, upward-curved horns; symmetrical, with a graceful, slender appearance. Similar to the Common Springbok, with thin, upward-curved horns, but slightly more pronounced due to the darker coat. Darker-colored horns that curve upward and outward; slightly thicker than the other variants but still slender. Thin, upward-curved horns, typically growing up to 35–45 cm (14–18 inches), with symmetry being a key quality indicator.
Size and Build Slightly smaller build compared to the other variants, though not drastically different. Similar in size to Common Springbok; no significant difference in build. Comparable in size to Common Springbok; may appear slightly larger due to the darker coloration. Medium-sized, slender, and agile, typically weighing 30–45 kg (66–99 lbs) and standing 60–75 cm (24–30 inches) at the shoulder.
Rarity Less common than the others and highly sought after due to its striking color, often found as a prized trophy. Rare, with a distinctive appearance that is highly prized by hunters. Copper Springbok are less common than the typical Common variant. Rare and highly prized for its dark, almost black fur. This variant stands out in a herd and is often sought for its uniqueness. The most common and widespread variant, often found in large herds across Southern Africa. It is the “standard” Springbok.
Hunting Popularity Very popular due to its rarity and unique appearance, making it a prized trophy. Gaining popularity for its unique color, though not as well-known or sought after as the Common or White Springbok. Highly prized by collectors and hunters due to its striking dark color. Most commonly hunted due to its availability and classic look, but still sought after for trophy hunting.
Habitat Similar to other variants, inhabits open grasslands, savannas, and semi-arid regions. Found in the same habitats as Common Springbok: open grasslands and semi-arid savannas. Prefers open plains and savannas but can adapt to semi-arid environments like the other variants. Found in open grasslands, savannas, and semi-arid regions throughout Southern Africa.
Trophy Quality Trophy quality is measured by horn symmetry and straightness, with good specimens having well-curved horns. Copper Springbok horns tend to be thinner and more delicate in appearance; symmetry is highly prized for trophy quality. Black Springbok trophies are judged on horn symmetry and overall size, with larger, darker horns being more desirable. Common Springbok trophy quality is often judged on the straightness and symmetry of the horns. A good specimen has evenly curved, well-defined horns.
Hunting Approach Spot-and-stalk is the best method for hunting; agility and speed make them more challenging to hunt than expected. Spot-and-stalk works well for Copper Springbok; their speed and agility also make them challenging targets. Similar to other variants in terms of hunting techniques; spot-and-stalk is the most effective method. Spot-and-stalk is the most effective method; Common Springbok are known for their agility, so hunters must be stealthy and patient.

 

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