A 20-strong herd of Springbok has been introduced into the Estate

In July 2009, 20 Springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), South Africa’s national animal, were re-introduced to the West Coast after the species’ long absence from this area. The Estate’s new herd arrived from a Karoo farm near Richmond in the Northern Cape. Now, by grazing the Estate’s Saldanha granite strandveld vegetation, the herd is more than just an attractive feature; they are actually helping to increase biodiversity on the Estate.

The Springbok is known for its ability to leap up to 2m high when alarmed (or sometimes just for fun). This action, called ‘stotting’ or to ‘pronk’ in Afrikaans, is used whenever Springbok are being chased, or to display strength and agility. Luckily, there are no lions on the Estate, so our herd should feel quite safe.

To ensure that the Springbok herd would be able to survive at Langebaan Country Estate, the indigenous vegetation was first assessed to determine how many Springbok could feasibly survive long-term in the available area. A professional game capturer from Stellenbosch, Mr. Werner Fourie, was then appointed to source, capture and transport the Springbok. Only after obtaining the relevant permit from Cape Nature were the fifteen ewes and five rams moved to the Estate.

Three new Springbok babies were spotted on the Estate this spring, and sharp eyed visitors may well come across them in the morning or late afternoon, as Springbok like to rest in the open when the sun is at its highest. These adorable new additions to the herd are certainly enjoying Langebaan Country Estate’s West Coast hospitality – don’t miss the chance to see them!