The sable antelope, also known as Hippotragus niger, is a large, majestic antelope that is found throughout southern and eastern Africa. Known for their striking appearance and impressive horns, these animals are a popular game animal, but are also protected in many areas due to overhunting.

Sable antelopes are large animals, with males typically weighing between 220-270 kg (485-595 lbs) and females weighing between 150-220 kg (330-485 lbs). They have a dark coat, with black or dark brown fur and white markings on their face, underbelly, and legs. One of their most distinctive features is their long, curved horns, which can grow to be over a meter (3.3 ft) in length.

Due to their size and formidable horns, sable antelopes are considered to be dangerous game and require a skilled hunter to take them down safely. In some areas, hunting of sable antelopes is strictly controlled or prohibited altogether.

Sable antelopes are found throughout southern and eastern Africa, ranging from South Africa and Namibia in the south to Tanzania and Kenya in the east. They prefer open woodland habitats with a mix of grasses and shrubs, and are often found near water sources such as rivers and lakes.

Sable antelopes are capable of living in a range of weather conditions, from hot and dry savannas to humid, forested areas. They are adapted to survive in harsh conditions and can go for extended periods without water, although they do require a reliable source of food.

Sable antelopes are primarily active during the day, although they may also be active during the cooler hours of the night. They are social animals that live in herds, with males often forming bachelor groups and females living in groups with their young.

Sable antelopes are herbivores, which means that they eat only plants. They primarily feed on a variety of grasses and leaves, as well as woody plants and shrubs. During the dry season when food sources are scarce, they are known to dig for roots and tubers in order to survive.

In summary, the sable antelope is a large, striking antelope found throughout southern and eastern Africa. They are a popular game animal, but are also protected in many areas due to overhunting. Sable antelopes are dangerous game and require a skilled hunter to take them down safely. They prefer open woodland habitats and can survive in a range of weather conditions. They are primarily active during the day and are herbivores, feeding on a variety of grasses, leaves, and woody plants.