The common African blesbuck, also known simply as blesbuck, is a medium-sized antelope that is native to South Africa. The scientific name for the blesbuck is Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi. It is a member of the genus Damaliscus, which also includes other African antelope species such as topi, korrigum, and sassaby.

The blesbuck stands at around 80-100 cm (31-39 inches) tall at the shoulder and can weigh between 50-80 kg (110-176 lbs). The males, or rams, are slightly larger and heavier than the females, or ewes. They have distinctive white markings on their faces and a white blaze on their foreheads that extends down to their noses. Their bodies are a light brown color that fades to a lighter cream color on their bellies.

Blesbucks are not considered dangerous to hunt, as they are relatively small and are not known for attacking humans. However, they are popular game animals due to their attractive appearance and the challenge of hunting them.

Blesbucks are found in South Africa, primarily in the grasslands and savannas of the Highveld and Karoo regions. They prefer open areas with short grass, where they can easily see and escape from predators. Blesbucks are also commonly found on game farms and reserves throughout South Africa.

Blesbucks are well adapted to living in hot and dry weather conditions. They have a specialized digestive system that allows them to extract moisture from the vegetation they eat, which helps them survive in areas with limited water sources. They are also capable of surviving in cold weather conditions, as long as they have access to shelter from the wind and adequate food.

Blesbucks are primarily herbivores, feeding on;

• Grasses
• Shrubs
• Other Vegitation

They are grazers and spend most of their time foraging for food during the day. They have a selective feeding strategy, choosing the most nutritious parts of the plants they eat. They also have a unique behavior where they will form small family groups, consisting of a dominant male and several females, and will often stay together even when not feeding.

Blesbucks are active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. They are social animals and can be seen in groups of up to 20 individuals. Males will also engage in displays of dominance, including head-butting and neck-wrestling, to establish their rank within a group.

In conclusion, the blesbuck is a common antelope species found in South Africa. They are medium-sized and not considered dangerous to hunt, but are popular game animals. They prefer open grasslands and savannas, are well adapted to living in hot and dry conditions, and are primarily herbivores. They are active during the day and are social animals that form small family groups.