Judging Lichtenstein Hartebeest

[Deleted member 15212]

I've recently spent some time in Zambia around a great number of this species of hartebeest. Upon my observations I found one bull in particular that really stood out to me. He was the only one with this dark strip down his face and he had heavy and worn horns as well as a big knot on his forehead... all others I have seen in the field and mounted in taxidermy shops did not. Is this an uncommon trait or an indication of age? He was with a small group but tended to hang by himself on the outskirts of the small group.

 

[LivingTheDream]

I dont know, but that guy looks old! He is a great trophy, Congratulations!

 

[Red Leg]

Really wonderful old bull. Even with the worn horn, he would score very well, and you couldn't find a better animal to take. As I am sure you are aware, relatively few trophy rooms showcase one of these incredible animals. Mine took two safaris to Mozambique to finally take one. Congratulations!

 

[MikeNC]

Wonderful looking old bull! I took mine in Zambia back in July of 2018.

 

[fourfive8]

I just looked at the skull of the one I have and yes, if you're talking about the dome shaped forehead, I think they all have it. Whether or not a taxidermist accurately reproduces it in a taxidermy mount- ?

I took a pic of my skull mount with a pencil pointing to the "dome" on the forehead. Very unique and worthy game animals in an interesting habitat type! Mine is from Mozambique. My Red Hartebeest skull is completely different and doesn't show any kind of domed forehead.

 

[fourfive8]

Red Hartebeest showing same area of skull for comparison

 

[Mort Hill]

Red Hartebeest showing same area of skull for comparison

View attachment 322010

Very informative comparison. I have both and just went to look at mine(shoulder mounts) and you are absolutely spot on. Thanks. Always learning.

 

[BRICKBURN]

Hell of a trophy. That much skull knitting is certainly a sign of age. Never mind the wear and tear on those horns. Congratulations