Aspects of the biology and behaviour of the steenbok Raphicerus campestris (Thunberg, 1811) in the Kruger National Park

Abstract

The present distribution of the steenbok, Raphicerus campestris (Thunberg, 1811), is given. Steenbok are widely distributed over southern and East Africa, but show a discontinuous distribution. The distribution of steenbok in the Kruger National Park and the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve is discussed. Methods to capture and mark steenbok are described and recommendations are made for the safe drug immobilization of steenbok. Four the problems associated with estimating census techniques and populations of small ungulates are discussed. steenbok are presented. Data on sex ratios and social groupings of Steenbok social behaviour in relation to social organization is reviewed. Steenbok have a 1:1 sex ratio and are solitary and territorial, but are not asocial. Food preferences and feeding behaviour are discussed. Steenbok are selective feeders, are predominantly browsers and utilize the forb stratum of the herbaceous layer. The maternal behaviour of both free-ranging and captive steenbok is described. Lamb behaviour, relevant to the mother's caretaking activities is also recorded. Concealment behaviour, the selection of concealment, nursing, suckling and other contact behaviours are described. Play behaviour and the development of the infant activity zone are also discussed. Habitat preferences were determined with the emphasis on structural features of steenbok habitat. Sites used for feeding are compared to those selected for resting and the vegetative elements which act on steenbok in their selection of areas are described.