Roan Antelope Hunting

Trophy hunting the Roan Antelope

The Roan Antelope (Hippotragus equinus) is one of Africa’s most prestigious and sought-after trophies. Roan Antelope have distinctive facial markings and is a formidable and large-bodied member of the Hippotragini tribe. For a hunter on an African hunting Safari, the Roan represents a true test of skill and patience in the bush.

At Graham Sales Safaris, we specialize in ethical, sustainable plains game hunting. Whether you are looking for a free-range adventure or a targeted Africa hunting trip, our experienced African Professional Hunters provide a world-class experience.

The six subspecies of Roan Antelope

Roan refers to the animal’s unique coat a grizzled appearance created by white hairs flecked through a reddish-brown or bluish-grey base. When planning your plains game hunting in Africa, it is essential to understand the different subspecies and their historical ranges:

Southern Roan Antelope (H. e. equinus)

The typical form and most common for trophy hunting. Range includes northern South Africa, Zimbabwe, western Mozambique, Malawi, north-eastern Botswana, and Zambia.

Angolan Roan Antelope (H. e. cottoni)

Found throughout most of Angola, southern D.R.C., northern Namibia, and north-western Botswana.

East African Roan Antelope (H. e. langheldi)

Native to southern and south-western Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and southern Uganda.

Western African, Gambian Roan, or Doccoi (H. e. koba)

Distributed from Gambia and Senegal in the west to Cameroon and C.A.R. in the east within the sub-Saharan savanna.

Sennar, Sudan, or Nile Roan Antelope (H. e. bakeri)

Located in both Sudans, northern Uganda, and western Ethiopia.

Shari or Lake Chad Roan Antelope (H. e. scharicus)

Found specifically in the Shari region and the areas surrounding Lake Chad.

Hunting characteristics & identification

When you hunt with a premier Safari outfitter, identification is key. Roan are the second-largest antelope in Africa. While both sexes carry scimitar-shaped horns, the males are significantly more robust.

Southern Roan: Features a reddish-brown or bluish-grey coat flecked with white.

Angolan Roan: Has a greyer appearance than other subspecies. Both males and females typically have a black forehead.

East African Roan: Paler in color with a slight reddish tinge. Both sexes feature a distinct chestnut forehead.

Western Roan: Notable for a light fawn coloration and a forehead that is usually black.

Shari Roan: Pale overall but distinguished by an ochreous coloration on the back, specifically behind the withers.

The Graham Sales Safaris experience

Is it legal to hunt Roan? Yes, under strictly managed and sustainable conservation models. As leading African hunting Outfitters, we ensure that every expedition contributes to the preservation of the species and its habitat.

The Roan is a tough, aggressive animal when cornered. For a successful plains game hunting Africa experience, we recommend the following.