The sable antelope is a large, striking antelope of African woodland, admired for the glossy black coat and sweeping horns of the males. It is one of the most sought-after sightings on safari.
Interesting facts
- Adult males are glossy black with a white belly and face markings.
- Both sexes have long, curved, ringed horns.
- Sable antelope defend themselves fiercely and have been known to kill lions with their horns.
- The giant sable, or ‘palanca negra gigante’, is a national symbol of Angola.
- Females and young are chestnut to dark brown.
- Herds are led by a dominant bull and a senior female.
Behaviour
Sable live in herds of about 10 to 30 females and young, with one territorial bull. Young males form bachelor groups. They graze in the early morning and late afternoon and must drink daily.
Breeding and young
After about nine months, a single calf is born and hidden for several weeks before joining the herd.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss, hunting and competition with livestock. The giant sable is threatened by its tiny population and past poaching.
Where to see it
- Linyanti and Chobe, Botswana
- Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
- Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
- Shimba Hills National Reserve, Kenya
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Hwange National Park Guide
