The Bushbuck 487 



use of a shot-gun at a bush-drive (unless the laws of the district forbid the 

 use of a rifle), I unhesitatingly condemn it as poaching of the worst kind, 

 and utterly unsportsmanlike. Bushbuck are, with perhaps the two 

 exceptions of the inyala and the rhebuck, the wariest creatures in South 

 Africa, and he who wins his trophies fairly has something to be proud of. 

 They may either be stalked in the bush, which is the most difficult plan, 

 requiring the exercise of the greatest perseverance and skill in forest-craft, 

 or as they stand sunning themselves on the edges of the bush. For this 

 purpose a good pair of field-glasses is very necessary, and will enable one to 

 pick up many a fine ram which would otherwise be overlooked. Bush-driving, 

 as I have said, is not, in my opinion, sport, but is practised extensively 

 where bushbuck are found. Beaters are sent into the bush or kloof with 

 dogs to drive the buck out to the posted guns. When the number of the 

 latter is insufficient to guard all likely exits, a coat or fluttering piece of paper 

 hung up will often prevent a buck breaking, and probably force him to 

 run out at some spot guarded by a gun. In the Cape Colony harriers 

 are largely used, and their steady perseverance inevitably forces the buck 

 to show himself. A kloof or bush must of course be driven down wind, 

 otherwise the bucks invariably break back. A wounded ram must be 

 approached with caution, for they can and will charge viciously, and give 

 an ugly poke. It is a fine sight to see an old ram at bay, standing with 

 angry eyes, erect mane, and lowered points, on which many a good dog 

 has met his death. Any good .360 express or .450 rifle will account for 

 a bushbuck, and the Lee-Metford also is an Ai weapon. Hollow-fronted 

 bullets should always be used. p V aughan Kirby. 



