Sable Antelope

Antelope (sable)

File:Antelope (sable) chart.jpg

During these periods, the males will grow quite aggressive. When any of the groups are threatened by outsiders, the antelope will join together and confront them, using their scimitar-shaped horns. An antelope which inhabits the wooded savanna of East Africa, from the Ethiopian highlands south to the Orange River. Often referred to as the black sable because of its dark coat; the skins are prized for their use as floor coverings and in making shields.

Males are about one fifth taller and heavier than the female (roll d8 for hp). They form herds of 10 to 30 females and calves led by a single male. Separated from the herd will typically be a "bachelor group" of up to 12 males. Males will fight among themselves to become the lead male, but these fights rarely end in injury. 

When a herd grows too large, it divides into smaller groups of cows and their young. These groups form new herds, once again with only one adult bull. During this time, the male groups tend to be aggressive against outsiders.

When sable antelopes are threatened, they will join together and confront, using their scimitar-shaped horns. Groups have been known to kill even lions. If breaking before a large enough pride or by human hunters, however, they will run up to 35 miles per hour (see Horse Gaits). As such, hunters must hit them before they rush away, then track the hit animal until it stops running.

Encounters

1. Seasonally aggressive: if approached to within 13–28 hexes, aggressive males will become active, rush together and jump forward between 4–10 hexes; if the number of enemy outnumbers the antelopes, they will break into a run, typically covering a distance of about half a mile before stopping. If they equal or outnumber the enemy, however, they will aggressively charge until it is clear they are being left alone. This form of behaviour only occurs when the animals are rutting, when a new herd is deciding upon a leader.

1. Non-aggressive: if approached within 9–16 hexes, all herds will quietly give ground, typically a distance of 20–50 hexes, before settling down again. They will fight if approached. A missile hit will cause one to scream, which will send the rest into a run.

See Bestiary.