HIGH-VALUE AND VISITOR-ATTRACTING GAME

The prices of game animals at auctions in South Africa can vary widely depending on factors such as rarity, genetics, age, trophy quality, and demand. Bear in mind that some game may be more attractive to hunters, while others may be more attractive to safari or game-viewing visitors. In the following, we’ve provided a list of high-value game for hunting, as well as game that may be more appropriate for safaris. This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are many more animals that are considered high value or attractive for game-viewing visitors.

Sable: Prized for their striking appearance and impressive horns.

Roan: Majestic antelope with distinctive facial markings and long, slender horns. High-quality roan antelope bulls with superior genetics and trophy potential can fetch significant prices at auctions.

Buffalo: Cape buffalo, especially those with exceptional horn size, symmetry, and coloration, are highly sought after by trophy hunters and game breeders. Bulls with desirable trophy characteristics, such as wide spreads and thick bases, can command premium prices at auctions.

Black impala: A colour variant of the common impala is rare and prized for its dark coat and contrasting white markings. Breeding programmes aimed at producing high-quality black impala specimens have led to increased demand and higher auction prices.

Golden wildebeest: A colour variant of the blue wildebeest, exhibits a unique golden or coppery colouration. These animals are bred selectively for their distinctive appearance, and individuals with uniform coloration and trophy quality can command premium prices.

Kudu: Known for its spiralled horns and striking markings. Exceptional kudu bulls with long, symmetrical horns and impressive trophy quality can attract high bids at auctions.

Nyala: Known for their shaggy coats, spiral horns, and white facial markings. Trophy-quality nyala bulls with large, wellformed horns and rich coloration are valued by hunters and game breeders.

Giraffe, rhino, elephant and predators, such as lion: These animals are sought after for ecotourism.