Chapter 03 · Night hunting

Night hunting at Buffelkraal

Once the sun drops behind the Waterberg, a different bush wakes up. Night hunting is quiet, focused work done from special blinds, with the right lighting and — where permitted — bait. It is how we hunt the animals that only move in the dark.

How a night hunt works

We leave the lodge in the late afternoon and settle into the blind before dark, so that everything is quiet by the time the animals arrive. Lights are set low and switched on gradually, your professional hunter confirms the species, the sex and the age class, and only then does the shot go in. After the shot we wait, listen and then track — all done slowly and by torchlight.

Blinds, lights and bait

Our night blinds are purpose-built, wind-tested and brushed in, with dimmable lamps so that the animal is lit properly without being blinded. Bait stations, where we use them, are maintained well ahead of your arrival and only under the required permits. If the conditions are wrong on the night, we will tell you rather than push a bad setup.

Permits and ethics

Night hunting is only ever done strictly within permit and quota, for the species that may legally be hunted at night. Some animals may only be taken in daylight, and no amount of asking will change that. Our professional hunter has the final say on every shot — that is what keeps the hunt legal, fair and worth doing.

Species you might hunt at night

• Jackal and hyena — the classic night predators of the bushveld.
• Bushpig — shy, clever and a real challenge in the dark.
• Other permitted nocturnal species — ask us what is on the quota for your dates.

What to bring

• Warm layers — nights cool down quickly, even in summer.
• Dark, quiet clothing and a head torch.
• Patience — night hunting is long sitting and careful listening.