“ Far removed from the daily grind of life,
Davenham Nature Reserve is a private, intimate and secluded retreat where
you can enjoy spacious accommodation, tranquility, an overpowering
sense of space and the unique nature of southern africa, the richest
floral biome in the world. ”
DAVENHAM
Nature Reserve
Where to find us: Click to follow the map below
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Lodges
Well appointed thatched log chalets ideal for families
and friends. The facebrick chalets are cosy &
comfortable.
Chalets
Family Lodging
This accommodation is a private, luxury
safari lodge which is intimate and their
ethos is all about relaxation in the bush for
families.
Romantic Lodging
This is a gorgeous sexy hideaway set high up in the
hills and surrounded by forests.
Luxury Lodging
This lodging offers guests elegant accommodation that
takes its design inspiration from the warrens and dens
of its.
Private Lodging
This complete selection of private safari lodging,
ranges from absolutely extravagant to romantically
intimate to classic family retreats.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Animal Facts
The nyala (Nyala angasii or
Tragelaphus angasii), also
called inyala,[3] is a spiral-
horned antelope native to
southern Africa. It is a species
of the family Bovidae and
genus Nyala, also considered to
be in the genus Tragelaphus.
Nyala
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
Activities
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Walking in Davenham Nature Reserve
with an experienced guide
Bush walks safari
Experience the comfort and security of
having a guide along to ensure smooth
running of your special trip with
world-class service from beginning to
end.
Private Family Guided Safari
Romantic Safari
Tented Safari
It indeed is a stylish structure in the
middle of the South African bush. This
is the place where you gather for meals,
activities, a drink or just to socialise
with other guests.
Horse Trails
Wonderful horse trails in the massive
Davenham Nature Reserve, horse
riding is both fun and a very good form
of exercise for both children and adults.
Culture & Wildlife Experience
This will give you a truly unforgettable
mix of wildlife adventure & exclusive
luxury.
We offer many different packages depending on the hunters individual needs, including trespass fees, exclusive group leases
and fully guided hunts. Hunt out of our lodges, using four wheel drives or stay in our remote cabins or tent camps. We
guarantee our ranches will never be overcrowded or over-hunted. Whether you are an archer, muzzleloader or rifle hunter,
prefer a fully guided hunt, drop camp or trespass fee, we have the perfect hunt for you.
Experience the local Venda Culture and
visits to the Sarrounding heritage sites and
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Davenham Hunting Experiences
Interested in a
hunting safari?
Then the Davenham Nature
Reserve is a destination not
to be missed! Hunting for
plains game being the main
passion of the active hunter,
there is also so much to do
and experience here that the
non-hunting guest will
remember his/her stay for a
long time to come, e.g. Big 5
game viewing, bird watching
and angling
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
•
All rates and fees are quoted in US Dollars / RSA Rands
•
A 30% deposit is required confirm a booking
•
Balance of total daily rate payable on arrival
•
Strictly cash, travellers cheques or credit cards (Mastercard and Visa
accepted)
•
Fees are payable in respect of all animals bagged or wounded
•
All quotes are valid for 3months
•
Cancellations less than 60 days before hunt - no refunds will be made, unless
re-booked for any period in the next twelve months.
•
Cancellations more than 60 days before hunt : 50% will be refunded
•
All guest are required to sign personal indemnity forms before commencement of
the safari
•
Please ensure you have travel, medical and personal insurance for the duration
of your safari
•
All additional animals shot will be charged at the current prices
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
•
Davenham caters for all hunters: those with rifles and
cross-bows, and also for those who prefer green
hunting.
•
Davenham has sufficient facilities for meat processing
and chilling. The butchery is fully equipped with
coldrooms, which may be used by all hunters.
•
Depending on where the meat will be transported to, it
may be necessary to vacuum pack your meat before it is
being removed from the premises.
•
A nearby taxidermist is available for trophies. Transport
of carcasses, as well as transport to a texidermist, can be
arranged on request.
•
Where necessary, we will also assist with
documentation to transport trophies and meat abroad,
at an additional fee.
Hunting Options, Regulations, Meat and Trophies
For Guided Hunts, we furnish
everything but your personal
gear.
•
All lodging and food
•
Airport shuttle
•
Caping and caring of trophies
•
Boxing and shipping your meat
and trophies anywhere you
desire.
•
Taxidermy services are also
available.
•
Tell us what you want and we
will design the perfect hunt for
you! Corporate hunting
packages are available.
You may also bring your own rifles:
The rifle must be declared at the airport upon arrival in South Africa and the owner of the firearm must have
the following in his/her possession: proof of purchase, sworn affidavit of ownership or a customs declaration. It
is important to note however that no semi automatic or automatic weapons may be imported into South
Africa. It is also important to note that no person under the age of 21 will be allowed to import a rifle into
South Africa. Ammunition may only be in the rifle caliber you are bringing in. No other ammunition allowed.
If you plan on traveling and using your personal firearm on your hunt the following documents are required
to be in your possession upon arrival in Johannesburg to secure your temporary firearm license:
1.
Firearm Licence/Permit/Certificate – From your country to verify proof of ownership & serial of
firearm. For United States clients a US Custom and Border Protection form 4457 is all that is required.
Download the form here.
2.
SAPS 520 Form – Must be completed in black ink. Wait to sign until in South Africa while at SAP
office. Download the form here.
3.
Airline ticket – Please make several photocopies of your flight itinerary – 1 copy is required to be given
to the South Africa police for the issuing of your firearm permit.
4.
Invitation letter – from Outfitter, kindly contact us to request one.
5.
Motivation letter – from Outfitter, kindly contact us to request one.
6.
Passport – Valid at least 6 months from date of arrival in South Africa. Please make several photocopies
of the bio data page of your passport. One copy is required to be given to the South Africa police for the
issuing of your firearm permit
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
We have pre-designed packages which are presented to
you upon request. We can also tailor make a package to
your specific requirements. Just contact us for further
information.
Tariffs
Species
The following is a list of animals that
are available for hunting:
Buffalo
Nyala
Sable
Roan
Blue Wildebeest
Bushbuck
Common Duiker
Eland
Gemsbuck
Girraffe
Impala
Klipspringer
kudu Greater
Mountain Redbuck
Red Duiker
Red Hartebeest
Steenbuck
Waterbuck
Zebra plains
African Civet
African Wild Cat
Baboon
Black backed Jackal
Bush pig
Carcal
Large spotted
Small spotted
Greysbuck Sharps
Hyena Brown
Monkey Vervet
Porcupine
Warthog
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Safari preparation
Herewith some links and tips to help you prepare for your South African Hunting Safari.
South African Visa requirements:
This will allow you to see whether you need a Visa to travel to South Africa: http://www.southafrica-
newyork.net/homeaffairs/visaexempt.htm
Vaccination Suggestions:
Here you can find a recommended list of vaccines and health related advice for traveling to South Africa:
http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/south-africa.htm
Yellow Fever:
Some countries require Yellow Fever Vaccinations to be administered prior to departing for your safari to South
Africa. Attached is the link to the website that will inform you if you are required to obtain a Yellow Fever
Vaccination: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2012/chapter-3-infectious-diseases-related-to-
travel/yellow-fever.htm#1948
Lunar Calendar:
Plan your hunting dates according to the phase of the moon. Herewith a link to the South African Lunar
Calendar: http://www.kwathabeng.co.za/travel/moon/moon-phase-calendar.html?country=South+Africa
Suggested packing lists
We suggest you bring along the following items:
Equipment
•
Light Weight Binoculars – Preferably 8x or 10x
•
Camera – extra memory and spare batteries
•
Day Bag or Backpack – small/medium soft bag for camera & personal items
•
Flashlight – extra batteries if needed
•
Rifle Cleaning Kit – with accessories for each gun
•
Soft Gun Case – if you are bringing your own rifle
•
Hunting Knife or Multi Tool
•
Passport
Clothing
It is unnecessary to pack excessive clothing because laundry services are provided. Three changes
of clothing are adequate as laundry is done regularly. Outer clothes should be dark green or dark
khaki. It is acceptable to wear camouflage clothing during the hunt in South Africa.
Our Suggested List of Clothing:
•
4x Hunting Shirts, 2 Long and 2 Short Sleeve
•
3x T-Shirts
•
1x Lightweight Hunting Jacket
•
1x Warm Hunting Jacket
•
1x Lightweight Rain Jacket
•
1x Fleece Jacket or Wool Sweater
•
2-3x Long Trousers
•
2-3x Walking Shorts
•
1x Lightweight Set of Waterproof Pants
•
4x Sets of Underwear
•
6x Pairs Comfortable Hiking Socks
•
1x Cap or Wide Brimmed Hat
•
2x Pairs Hunting Shoes or Boots (Quiet Soles for Stalking)
•
1x Pair Camp Shoes
•
1x Pair Gloves
•
1x Warm Stocking Cap
Miscellaneous
•
Toiletry Kit, incl, Soap, Shampoo/Conditioner, Nail Clippers, Tweezers, Razor, Shaving Cream,
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
•
Anti-diarrheal pills
•
Hydrocortisone (anti-itch) cream
•
Pain killers
•
Heartburn relief
•
Insect Repellant
•
Quality Sunscreen
•
Lip Balm
•
Personal Medication
•
Spare Eye Glasses
•
Sun Glasses
•
Electrical plug adaptor
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
Davenham Nature Reserve Reference Guide
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Davenham Private Game Reserve is Africa’s Eden. Covering across 2 000 hectares of savannah and riverine
forest, Davenham represents a piece of Africa as it used to be. From the mountains to the symbolical Kruger
National Park to the east, Davenham has distilled the finest wildlife safari offerings for the enjoyment of guests.
The reserve is a slice of wilderness paradise far from the madding crowd; a place of renewal and reconnection
with the natural but vibrant world.
Mammal Guide : What Makes a Mammal?
There are more than 4,000 different species of mammals. The smallest is the hog-nosed bat, which weighs 0.05
ounces. The largest is the blue whale, which can be 100 feet long and weigh 150 tons. But whether they live on
land or water, all mammals share some common characteristics.
All mammals:
•
Are vertebrates (which means they have a backbone or spine).
•
Are endothermic. Also known as “warm-blooded,” endothermic animals regulate their own body temperate
which allows them to live in almost every climate on Earth.
•
Have hair on their bodies.
•
Produce milk to feed their babies. This allows them to spend more time with their young and teach them
important skills they need to survive on their own.
Ungulate
Impala
Impalas are medium-sized antelopes that roam the savanna and light woodlands of
eastern and southern Africa. In the rainy season, when food is plentiful, they may
gather in large herds of several hundred animals to browse on grasses and herbs,
bushes, shrubs, and shoots.
Bush Buck
The bushbuck is the most widespread antelope in Sub-Saharan Africa, and is found
in rain forests, montane forests, forest-savanna mosaics and bush savanna forest and
woodland. Recently, genetic studies have shown that the bushbuck is a complex of
two geographically and phenotypically distinct species.
Nyala
The nyala, also called inyala, is a spiral-horned antelope native to southern
Africa. It is a species of the family Bovidae and genus Nyala, also considered to
be in the genus Tragelaphus.
Greater Kudu
The greater kudu is a woodland antelope found throughout eastern and southern
Africa. Despite occupying such widespread territory, they are sparsely populated in
most areas, due to a declining habitat, deforestation and poaching
Eland
The common eland, also known as the southern eland or eland antelope, is a
savannah and plains antelope found in East and Southern Africa. It is a species of the
family Bovidae and genus Taurotragus
Roan Antelope
The roan antelope is a savanna antelope found in West, Central, East and Southern
Africa. It is the namesake of the Chevaline project, whose name was taken from the
French Antelope Chevaline. Roan antelope are one of the largest species of antelope
Sable Antelope
The sable antelope is an antelope which inhabits wooded
savannah in East Africa south of Kenya, and in Southern
Africa.
Mammal Guide
Very Large Mammals
African Elephant
African elephants are elephants of the genus Loxodonta.
The genus consists of two extant species: the African bush
elephant and the smaller African forest elephant.
Loxodonta is one of two existing genera of the family,
Elephantidae
White rhinoceros
The white rhinoceros or square-lipped rhinoceros is the
largest species of rhinoceros that exists. It has a wide
mouth used for grazing and is the most social of all rhino
species.
Mammal Guide
<<Load more infomation>>
Very large browsers and grazers with bare greyish skin
and large feet
Ungulates include all animals of which the last joint
of the
toes is covered with a horn-like.
Hippopotamus
The hippopotamus, or hippo, is a large, mostly
herbivorous mammal in sub-Saharan Africa, and one of
only two extant species in the family Hippopotamidae.
The name comes from the ancient Greek for "river horse"
Carnivores
Cat and dog like animals that hunt or are scavenger.
Mammal Guide
Lion
The lion is one of the five big cats in the genus Panthera
and a member of the family Felidae. With some males
exceeding 250 kg in weight, it is the second-largest living
cat after the tiger
Leopard
The leopard is one of the five "big cats" in the genus
Panthera. It is a member of the Felidae family with a wide
range in some parts of sub-Saharan Africa, West Asia, the
Middle East, South and Southeast Asia to Siberia
Cheetar
The cheetah is a large feline inhabiting most of Africa and
parts of Iran. It is the only extant member of the genus
Acinonyx
Caracal
The caracal, also known as the desert lynx, is a wild cat
widely distributed across Africa,
Serval
The serval is a medium-sized African wild cat. DNA
studies have shown that the serval is closely related to the
African golden cat and the caracal.
African Wild Cat
The African wild cat is usually grey brown with a pattern
of black stripes over the body. The fur is fairly short and
soft; the tail bushy. They are similar in appearance and
colour to a tabby domestic cat. African wild cats vary from
yellowish brown to gray to brown, with pattern of stripes
and spots and are found in a range of habitats, but not in
rainforest or open desert.
Small Spotted Cat
This is the smallest cat in the region. The colour varies from
cinamon to light yellow in the north. The coat is marked
with stripes and spots.
Spotted Hyaena
The spotted hyena, also known as the laughing hyena, is
a monospecific species of hyena native to Sub-Saharan
Africa.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Impala Facts
Kingdom:
Animalia
Phylum:
Chordata
Class:
Mammalia
Order:
Artiodactyla
Family:
Bovidae
Genus:
Aepyceros
Scientific Name: Aepyceros
Melampus Type: Mammal
Diet:
Herbivore
Size:
68-92cm (27-36in)
Weight:
37-75kg (81.6-165lbs)
Top Speed:
48km/h (30mph)
Life Span:
12-15 years
Lifestyle:
Herd
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Colour:
Tan, Brown, White
Skin Type:
Fur
Favourite Food:
Grass
Habitat:
Wooded savanna and dense bushland
Average Litter Size:
1
Main Prey:
Grass, Seeds, Flowers
Predators:
Hyena, Lion, Crocodile
Special Features:
Small and slim body and curved horns
Impala distribution in the
Southern Africa
The impala is one of the many species of antelope that is found inhabiting the African wilderness. The impala
is a medium-sized antelope that is primarily found in the savannas and thicker bush-land in the more southern
parts of the African continent.
The male impala are well-known for their curved horns that are able to reach lengths of around 90 cm...thats
bigger than the average impala individual! The male impala are known as rams, mainly due to the fact that the
male impala use their horns when defending themselves both from other dominant male impala and from
oncoming predators. The female impala do not have horns at all and they are known as ewes.
Foot Print
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Impala
Breeding
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Eland Facts
Scientific Name: Taurotragus
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Bovidae
Subfamily: Bovinae
Genus: Taurotragus
Species: Taurotragus Oryx (Common Eland or .
Southern Eland) & Taurotragus Derbianus (Giant Eland)
Weight: 300 to 600 kg (females) and 450 to 1,000 kg
(males)
Diet: Herbivore (grass, branches and leaves)
Age Of Sexual Maturity: 15 to 36 months in females and 4 to 5 years
in males
Gestation Period: 9 months
Average Litter Size: 1
Predators: Lion, leopard, hyena, cheetah, cape hunting
dog
Average Lifespan: 15 to 20 years (some are known to live as
long as 25 years)
Habitat: Eastern & Southern Africa
The world's largest antelope, elands have a somewhat different social structure. Dominant males are solitary and
assess each other's strength by locking horns, trying to throw the opponent to the ground. The strongest males
make a loud clicking sound as they walk that can be heard by rivals more than a mile away. Younger males live in
groups of three or four, while females gather in larger groups that vary from day to day. Females tend to move
around more than males. Adults weigh 590 to 680 kg (1300 to 1500 lbs). A female's horns grow to 63 cm (25 in),
while a male's horns grow twice as long.
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Eland
Breeding
Females reach sexual maturity at 3 years of age, while males fully mature at 4 to 7. No specific breeding season.
Gestation period is 9 months and single young are born at any time of the year. Calves wean for 3 to 6 months.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
This is a large and handsome antelope. Sable are characterised by glossy black coats with white under parts and
white facial markings. Cows and young are dark brown in colour. Both sexes have stiff black manes along the dorsal
aspects of their necks. The shoulder height of bulls is 1.4 m, which weigh up to 270 Kg. Cows are slightly smaller.
Both sexes have long horns, which are ridged, and which curve backwards. Tips of horns are smooth and sharp
pointed. The scimitar-shaped horns of mature bulls can be up to 1.2 m in length. Horns on females are shorter and
slimmer. Ears are brick red at the back and shorter than that of the roan antelope. The horn of young become visible
at the age of two months.
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Sable Antelope
Breeding
Females reach sexual maturity at 3 years of age, while males fully mature at 4 to 7. No specific breeding season.
Gestation period is 9 months and single young are born at any time of the year. Calves wean for 3 to 6 months.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Named for their “roan” coat color (a reddish brown), roan antelope have a lighter underbelly, white eyebrows, cheeks
and a black face, which is lighter in females. They have a short, erect mane, a very light beard and prominent red
nostrils. Their horns are ringed and can reach 3.3 feet long in males; slightly shorter in females. The horns of roan
antelope grow upward and arch backwards slightly. Similar in appearance to Sable Antelope and can be confused
where their ranges overlap. Sable Antelope males are darker, however, with black coats as opposed to dark brown.
Roan antelope stand approximately 5 feet at the shoulder and males weigh upwards of 550 lbs.
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Roan Antelope
Breeding
There does not appear to be a specific breeding season for roan antelope. Females have a gestation period of 268-280
days, where the give birth to a single young. The calf is weaned for up to 6 months. Females become sexually receptive
within three weeks of giving birth, and are capable of reproducing every 10-10.5 months. A pregnant female will
separate from her herd prior to giving birth, and remain with her new calf for about five days afterwards. After the
female has rejoined the herd, the young calf remains concealed for five more weeks, subsequently joining a ‘creche’ with
other youngsters in the herd. Roan antelope sexually mature at 2.5 to 3 years of age.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Nyala Facts
Latin Name Tragelaphus Angasii
Weight (Female) 55 - 68 kg
Weight (Male) 92 - 126 kg
Gestation Period 8 months
No of Young 1 calf
Birth Weight 5 kg
Order Artiodactyla
Family Bovidae
Horns 64 cm (record - 84 cm)
Nyala distribution in the
Southern Africa
Nyala are medium sized antelopes and they have a body length between 1.4 and 1.6 m (4.5 - 5.25 ft), a tail length
between 40 and 55 cms (16 - 22 inches) and they weigh between 55 and 125 kgs (120 - 280 lbs). Male Nyala are
much larger and heavier than females.
Male Nyala have a dark grey coloured head and body with indistinct stripes along their torso. Their lower legs are
tan in colour and they have have a fringe of hair along their underside and a thin crest on their back. They have horns
that measure up to 70 cms (28 inches) in length and a white "V" between their eyes.
Female and juvenile Nyala are red/brown in colour and they have distinctive, vertical white stripes along their body.
They do not have any horns but they have a white "V" between their eyes.
They spend most of the day, particularly the hottest part, under the shade and they tend to feed during the evening
and early in the morning. They have an alarm call that is a "dog-like" bark.
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Nyala
Breeding
Nyala breed throughout the year although most young are born in spring and there is a small peak in the autumn. After a gestation
period of 7 months, 1 calf (sometimes 2) is born. At birth the young Nyala weighs approximately 5 kg (11 lbs) and they remain
hidden from predators for approximately 18 days.
They are weaned at around 7 months old but they remain with their mother until her next calf is born. Nyala are sexually mature
by the time they are 18 months old.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Bushbuck Facts
Latin Name Tragelaphus Scriptus
Weight (Female) 30 - 36 kg
Weight (Male) 40 - 77 kg
Gestation Period 6 months
No of Young 1 lamb
Sexual Maturity 11 - 14 months
Birth Weight 4 kg
Order Artiodactyla
Family Bovidae
Horns 40 cm
Bushbuck distribution in the
Southern Africa
The very sharp horns render the Bushbuck very dangerous when wounded. The Bushbuck is a close relative of the
Kudu and the Nyala. The rams are very elegant in appearance, sporting dark greyish-brown fur, with white spots
on the flanks and prominent white socks. In height they are 700mm at the shoulders, and have a maximum mass of
54 Kg's.
Ewes are smaller and adult ewes are lighter in colour than rams, with more pronounced white spots and stripes.
Both males and females have geometrically shaped white patches or spots on the most mobile parts of their body,
namely the ears, chin, tail, legs and neck, as well as a band of white at the base of the neck. On males these
markings become more visible during their displays when they arch their backs and slowly circle one another,
walking in a tense, high-stepping gait. These highly ritualized displays usually make fighting unnecessary and
alongside this, a rigid age-based hierarchy among keeps males in check.
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Bushbuck
Breeding
With a gestation period of 6 to 7 months some females are able to reproduce twice a year. The birth peak is generally during the rainy
season in dry regions, but in high-rainfall areas there are not really any peaks. After giving birth, the mother cleans the newborn calf
and eats the placenta.
The young calf does not accompany its mother for long periods during the day until it is about 4 months old and so it must leave the calf
well hidden. When she visits and suckles it, she even eats its dung to remove any scent that remains which may attract predators. Ewes
reach sexual maturity at 14 months. Even though rams reach sexual maturity at 11 months they generally do not mate until socially
adept at the age of three years.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Greater kudu Facts
Kingdom:
Animalia
Phylum:
Chordata
Class:
Mammalia
Order:
Artiodactyla
Family:
Bovidae
Genus:
Tragelaphus
Scientific Name:
Tragelaphus Strepsiceros
Type:
Mammal
Diet:
Herbivore
Size:
0.8-1.2m (31-47in)
Weight:
120-256kg (265-565lbs)
Top Speed:
95km/h (60mph)
Life Span:
8-14 years
Lifestyle:
Herd
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Colour:
Brown, Grey, Red
Skin Type:
Hair
Favourite Food:
Leaves
Habitat:
Shrub woodland and savanna plains
Average Litter Size:
1
Main Prey:
Leaves, Herbs, Fruit, Flowers
Predators:
Lions, Leopards, Wild Dogs
Special Features:
Large ears and white stripes on body
Kudu show strong sexual dimorphism in that bulls bear massive, long, spiral horns which reach record lengths of
up to 1.8 m. Horns grow to their full length at the age of six years. Bulls also attain much larger sizes than cows.
Bulls can weigh as much as 300 Kg with a shoulder height of 1.4m and cows weigh 210 Kg with a shoulder height
of 1.25m. Tawny-brown to grey-brown coat, marked with white stripes on flanks which vary greatly in shape, size
and pattern. V-shaped band on forehead and white spots on cheeks. Manes of long hair extend from the back of the
head along the back to the tail, as well as on the lower neck to the belly.
Related Animals
Antelope
Renew their horns every year!
Bongo
Long and heavy spiralled horns!
Giraffe
Long, black tongue can grow to 18
inches long!
Wildebeest
Can trek more than 1,000 miles
every year!
Kudu
Lives in herds of up to 24
individuals!
Greater Kudu
Breeding
In South Africa the rutting season is through April to May. Single calves are born during January-February after a gestation period
of nine months. Out-of-season births are not unusual. For the first four to six weeks calves lie up in hiding and are visited by their
mothers for nursing. Cows and their young form social groups of four to ten.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Endangered animals in South Africa, and how you can help
Endangered animals – there’s more to this than rhinos! Learn about some other threatened wildlife, and how you can
contribute to their conservation.
Pickergill’s Reed Frog – critically endangered.
It’s easy to overlook an animal that is only 3cm long, but once you know of its existence, it’s hard not to care
about its future. The Pickersgill’s reed frog is one of the most endangered amphibians in South Africa.
2. Cape vulture
1. Pickergill’s Reedfrog
We easily underestimate the importance of vultures, perhaps because the term in itself has quite a negative
connotation. But the essence of being a vulture is to clean up, and therefore, do good. By eating off carcasses they
avoid diseases from spreading amongst the animal kingdom. Cape vultures are only found in southern Africa,
limiting the already decreasing population.
3. Cheetah
No one can deny the grace and beauty of the fastest land animal on earth. These beauties have been the subject of
countless incredible wildlife images, with their dark tear stains and perfectly spotted, agile bodies. Unfortunately,
many farmers don’t feel the same as cheetahs are smart enough to know that a sheep is a much easier catch than an
antelope on the run. Many farmers end up poisoning, shooting or trapping the cheetah culprits.
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
4. African Wild dog (painted dog)
There has long existed a very negative misconception around the African wild dog, or painted dog. Because of this,
there are less than 450 painted dogs left in South Africa. Violent snaring of wild dogs is one of the most brutal ways
of killing, and unfortunately this happens much too often in our wildernesses.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Here is a list of all the different bird species found at Davenham Nature Reserve. So far we have identified around 80
different kinds, making Davenham a delight for bird watchers.
Bird watching
Bird Species identified on Davenham:
•
Guinea Fowl
•
Secretary Bird
•
African Fish Eagle
•
Cape Vulture
•
White Backed Vulture
•
Lappet-Faced Vulture
•
Black-Chested Snake Eagle
•
Steppe Buzzard
•
Black Winged Kite
•
Yellow Bold Kite
•
Eastern Red Footed
•
Spotted Eagle Owl
•
European Night Owl
•
Grey Loerie
•
White Backed Moosebird
•
Redfaced Moosebird
•
Crested Barbet
•
Pied Barbet
•
Yellow Fronted Tinker Barbet
•
Brown Hooded Kingfisher
•
European Bee Eater
•
Scimitar-Billed Wood Hoopoe
•
Kakelaar
•
Red Billed Wood Hoopoe
•
Southern Yellow Billed Hornbill
•
Black Sunbird
•
Marico Sunbird
•
European Night Jar
•
Piew Crow
•
Fiscal Srike
•
Red Backed Srike
•
Red Chested Srike
•
Red Chested Cuckoo
•
Black Cuckoo
•
Cacobin Cuckoo
•
Diederik Cuckoo
•
Black Cuckoosrike
•
Forktailed Dronge
•
Blackheaded Oriole
•
Red Eyed Bulbul
•
Arrow Marked Babbler
•
Pied Babbler
•
Kurrichane Thrush
•
Ground Scraper Thrush
•
Ant-Eating Chat
•
White Throated Robin
•
Cape Robin
•
Kalahari Robin
•
Paradise Flycatcher
•
Fiscal Flycatcher
•
Spotted Flycatcher
•
Marico Flycatcher
•
Chat Flycatcher
•
Whittled Starling
•
Glossy Starling
•
Redwinged Starling
•
Capewhite Eye
•
Titbabbler
•
Yellow Billed Duck
•
Spur Winged Goose
•
Egyptian Goose
•
Red Billed Teal
•
Grey Heron
•
Cattle Egret
•
Hammerkop
•
Black Stork
•
Hadeda
•
Ostrich
•
Red Crested
•
White Quilted
•
Crowned Plover
•
Blacksmith Plover
•
Wattled Plover
•
Three Banded Plover
•
Coqui Francolin
•
Crested Francolin
•
Swainson’s Francolin
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Guide to some of the Reptiles found in Davenham Nature Reserve including species of snakes,
lizards, tortoises and crocodiles
Reptiles
Variable Skink
African Reptiles guide Information: Variable Skink
(Mabuya varia) - A medium-sized skink with a rounded
snout and a window in each lower lid.
Vine Snake
African Reptiles guide Information: Southern Vine
Snake, Twig Snake, Bird Snake [Thelotornis capensis
capensis]. This extremely thin snake has a lance-shaped
head and large eyes with keyhole-shaped pupils
Striped Skink
African Reptiles guide Information: Striped Skink,
African Striped Skink [Trachylepsis striata]. This
medium-sized skink has a window in each of the
lower eyelids.
Spotted Thick Toed Gecko
African Reptiles guide Information: Thick-Toed
Gecko or Spotted Gecko [Pachydactylus maculates].
A small, gentle gecko with a fat body and a rounded
snout. The back is grey to greyish-brown
Spekes Hinged Tortoise
African Reptiles guide Information: Speke's Hinge-
Back Tortoise [Kinixys spekii]. A medium-sized
tortoise with a smooth, depressed carapace with a
well developed hinge.
Serrated Hinged Terrapin
African Reptiles guide Information: The Serrated
Hinged Terrapin is the largest hinged terrapin.
The carapace and bridge are uniform black in
colour.
Red Lipped Snake
African Reptiles guide Information: The Red
Lipped Snake is a small snake with a broad,
obvious head and a short tail. The scales are in 19
rows at midbody and are dull
Flap Neck Chameleon
African Reptiles guide Information: The Flapped-
Necked Chameleon is a large chameleon with a
continuous crest of small, white, triangular
tubercles on the throat and belly
What Makes a Reptile?
There are four main groups of
reptiles: turtles and tortoises;
lizards and snakes; crocodiles and
alligators; and the tuatara. Many
reptiles spend most of their time on
land, but some spend a great deal
of time in the water. Reptile species
can be found in all types of habitat
except polar ice and tundra.
All reptiles:
•
Are vertebrates (which
means they have a backbone
or spine)
•
Are ectothermic. Also
known as “cold-blooded,”
ectothermic animals cannot
regulate their own body
heat, so they depend on
warmth from sunlight to
become warm and active. If
they get too hot, they have
to find shade or a burrow to
help them cool down.
•
Are covered with scales
•
Have lungs for breathing
The tortoise family
•
African Spurred
Tortoise
•
African helmeted
turtle
•
Aldabra Giant
Tortoise
•
East African Black
Mud Turtle
•
Geometric Tortoise
•
Leopard tortoise
•
Pancake tortoise
•
Radiated tortoise
•
Turkana Mud Turtle
•
Upemba Mud Turtle
•
Pelusios
•
Yellowbelly Mud
Turtle
Snakes and Lizards
•
Acanthocercus
•
Acanthodactylus
erythrurus
•
Acanthodactylus
mechriguensis
•
Agama (genus)
•
Agama agama
•
Agama aculeata
•
Agama africana
•
Agama armata
•
Agama caudospinosa
•
Agama mwanzae
•
Agama rueppelli
•
Aspidelaps
•
Atheris ceratophora
•
Atheris chlorechis
•
Atheris desaixi
•
Atheris hispida
•
Atheris katangensis
•
Atheris nitschei
•
Atheris squamigera
•
Bitis arietans
•
Bitis atropos
•
Bitis caudalis
•
Bitis cornuta
•
Bitis gabonica
•
Bitis heraldica
•
Bitis inornata
•
Bitis nasicornis
•
Bitis parviocula
•
Bitis peringueyi
•
Bitis rubida
•
Bitis schneideri
•
Bitis worthingtoni
•
Bitis xeropaga
•
Boomslang
•
Boulengerina annulata
•
Cape Cobra
•
Cape Dwarf Chameleon
•
Chalcides armitagei
•
Chalcides montanus
•
Chalcides ocellatus
•
Chalcides pulchellus
•
Chalcides regazzii
•
Chalcides thierryi
•
Chamaeleo hoehnelii
•
Chamaeleo johnstoni
•
Chamaeleo melleri
•
Charina
•
Common Egg-eater
•
Eastern green mamba
•
Echis coloratus
•
Fischer's Chameleon
•
Hemidactylus brookii
•
Hemidactylus echinus
•
Hemidactylus frenatus
•
Hemidactylus mabouia
•
Hemidactylus muriceus
•
Hemidactylus
pseudomuriceus
•
Henkel's Leaf-tailed Gecko
•
Jackson's Chameleon
•
Karoo Dwarf Chameleon
•
Lined day gecko
•
Madagascarophis
•
Mamba
•
Mozambique Spitting Cobra
•
Naja ashei
•
Naja nigricollis
•
Namaqua Chameleon
•
Nile monitor
•
Nucras caesicaudata
•
Paranaja multifasciata
•
Phelsuma pusilla pusilla
•
Psudohaje goldii
•
Python anchietae
•
Python regius
•
Python sebae
•
Python sebae natalensis
•
Red Spitting Cobra
•
Rhamphiophis oxyrhynchus
•
Rhampholeon spectrum
•
Rhampholeon brevicaudatus
•
Rinkhals
•
Rosette-Nosed Chameleon
•
Savannah monitor
•
Sharp-nosed Chameleon
•
Small-spotted Lizard
•
Spitting cobra
•
Strange-nosed Chameleon
•
Trachylepis striata
•
Uromastyx geyri
•
Uroplatus
•
Uroplatus guentheri
•
Uroplatus lineatus
•
Uroplatus phantasticus
•
Uroplatus fimbriatus
•
Uroplatus silkorae
•
Varanus albigularis
•
Varanus albigularis angolensis
•
Varanus albigularis microstictus
•
Varanus albigularis ionidesi
•
Varanus griseus
•
Vipera monticola
•
Western green mamba
•
Yellow-throated day gecko
The Crocodile family
•
Nile Crocodile
•
Crocodile
•
Dwarf Crocodile
•
Slender-snouted Crocodile
List of African reptiles
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Where to find us:
Click to follow the map below
Tradition & Culture
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
The Venda or Ba venda (Vhavhenda or Vhavgona) are an
amalgamation of Bantu-speaking Southern African people
living mostly near the South African-Zimbabwean border.
The Vhavenda or the "Venda" as
they are
popularly called, are
perhaps the only
Black
nation south of the Vhembe River (Limpopo River), whose
country was not named after the people. The name
"Venda" means land or country. It has no prefix or suffix
to indicate that it is a land inhabited by a certain people.
That is why its inhabitants are Vhavenda or the Venda,
meaning the people of Venda. The country became a
kingdom when Dambanyika, established himself at
Lwandali in 1688. He consolidated the kingdom and
became the first Thovhele of the modern Venda society.
This happened at a time when most, if not all, Black
nations in the sub-continent were still living in scattered
communities.
When the bantustan of Venda received nominal
independence in 1973, their population stood at 200,000.
Currently, there are about 3.5 million Venda speaking
people in South Africa according to 2011 census whilst
there are about 600,000 venda people in Zimbabwe.
The Venda people
GEOGRAPHY
The Vhavenda people are located on the North and West of
Makhado in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The
region they inhabit borders Zimbabwe and it is where the
Shashe and Vhembe rivers meet. The word Vhavenda and
Venda are used interchangeably when referring to the
Vhavenda people, however the word Vhavenda better
describes the people, whilst Venda refers more to the
language. The Venda also lives in Zimbabwe near the border
with South Africa. “The Venda traditionally occupy an area
in and around the Soutpansberg Mountains in the
northeastern section of South Africa's Northern Province,
close to the borders with Mozambique and Zimbabwe.”
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Frequently Asked Questions
May I bring my own fire-arms?
We do have a full range of fire-arms available on the farm, but you are welcome to bring your own. If you are visiting from outside
of South Africa then we will send you a written invitation for the hunt, which you will require at the customs office when you enter
South Africa. We will help you to facilitate this process quickly and easily.
Trophies/taxidermy?
Should you wish to take home your trophy we can assist by means of a licensed taxidermist. You can either go for a full shoulder
mount, or just a dip-and-ship for if you want to transport your trophy and use your own taxidermist. Prices are subject to change
and available on request.
What if I need to cancel my trip?
If you cancel more than 60 days prior to your hunt/stay then your full deposit amount will be refunded. If you cancel less than 60
days prior to your hunt/stay then your deposit will not be refunded – but you may either change the date of your hunt/stay or you
may transfer your hunt/stay to somebody else.
Maps
Climate
The general climate of the Davenham Nature Reserve should be typed into two seasons only : Warm wet season
and cool dry season instead of spring, autumn, winter and summer.
Temperature
In the Davenham Nature Reserve temperature is strongly associated with seasonal conditions and topography.
Warm Wet Season (WWS) — Dec–Feb. Temperatures are relatively warm, ranging from 16 degrees Centigrade to
40 °C.
Cool Dry Season (CDS) — May–Aug. Temperatures range from 12–22 °C. Cool and sometimes chilly cold.
Rainfall
The area receives one cycle of rainfall that extends from October of the previous year and ends in March of the
following year (approximately 182 days). The dry season runs from April to October.
Rainfall distribution is greatly influenced by the Davenham Nature Reserve. In the middle of the Davenham
Nature Reserve’s annual rainfall can reach 2 000 mm (Entabeni) and in the western part of the Davenham Nature
Reserve rainfall can be as low as 340 mm.
Rainfall peaks during January and February.
Wind
Wind affects large areas of croplands in semi-arid areas of the Davenham Nature Reserve. The prime example is
Muswodi area where climatic factors such as rainfall, ambient humidity and drought are associated with it. The
area experiences wind erosion during dry months. The erosion is intense in August.
Cloud Cover
The WWS is associated with convective clouds that occur due to both intense insulation because of the prevailing
sun in the southern hemisphere, and also due to the orographic lifting of moist air over the Davenham Nature
Reserve.
The CDS is mainly associated with clear skies except on top of the high ground where cloud, fog or mist are
common, especially during the morning, before the sun is intense enough to dissolve the clouds.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Where to find us
This is a department dedicated to Friesian
horses, on the Davenham Nature Reserve, we
provide our Friesians for a range of different
activities .
We are passionate about the breed and are committed to our
Friesian breeding and training program using only top class
mare lines and approved Friesian stallions. Our farm view
experience is aimed at those wanting to learn more about these
fabulous horses and visitors will have the opportunity to ride
and/or drive a friesian.
Friesian horse facts
Distinguishing features
Black, 15 to 17 hands (60 to 68 inches,
152 to 173 cm), powerfully muscled, agile
with elegant action, thick mane and tail,
feather on lower legs.
Alternative names
Belgian Black (UK)
Country of origin
Netherlands
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Where to find us
Here, we showcase some of the photos we've take during shows as well as some of our other
events throughout the years.
You can also contact us for queries about our horses for sale, or if you'd just like an
opportunity to view our amazing breeds.
Gallery
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Where to find us
Training and Stabling our Friesian Horses
Our Friesians are trained the horse-friendly way which we were taught in the Netherlands by top
trainers. We also attended various clinics which gave us a sound basis and good working
knowledge.
Stables
We have indoor stables, 2 houses, a wine cellar what is now our tackroom for tack/harnassement
and carriages and a store for fodder. The stable has 14 spacious, airy boxes and adjacent to the
stable is a wash-place with hot and cold running water.
The old farmhouse and wine cellar are dated 1927 - adjacent to the tackroom is the house we
presently live in. We also have two outdoor stables and two quarantine stables.
Our international standard dressage arena
We are still busy making camps for the horses - at present we have 12 camps with a total area of
10ha, all of which have electric fencing. On the other side of the road there is grazing for the
young horses.
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Where to find us
The Friesian horse is a breed of horse from Friesland,
a province of the Netherlands. Although originally
bred as a draft horse, the breed is graceful and nimble
for its size and later developed into a finer-boned
nobleman's steed. During the Middle Ages, Friesian
horses were in great demand as destriers throughout
Europe since their size enabled them to carry a knight
in full armor. After a few close calls with breed
extinction, the impressive Friesian horse is now
growing in numbers and popularity, proving to excel
in both dressage and driving.
The History of the Friesian Horse
From the latter part of the 20th century until
present, demand for purebreds and also a finer-
boned, taller, more agile version of the Friesian was
and is high, so both stud farming and crossbreeding
are used to produce purebreds and a lighter-weight
mix breed horse of valued characteristics. Friesian
and Friesian-mixed horses excel in dressage
competitions due the breed's strong intellect (and
show-form looks) and powerful strength and body
control, hence its participation in such events has
grown dramatically, although prices have
skyrocketed out of the average emerging equestrian's financial reach.
Due to its heavy, muscular physique the purebred Friesian is not well-suited to aerobic sports
like all-out racing, but its status as a student and dressage horse is peerless. The Friesian is used
mainly for dressage. It also remains popular as a carriage horse, including in competitions,
because it is easy to match teams and its high-stepping action makes it eye-catching and
impressive. They are also good all-rounders, used for showing, driving, and general riding, and
are also used as circus horses.
The Friesian today
© Copyright DAVENHAM FARM 2014. All rights reserved
Contact Us
Leave your details below and we will promptly contact you:
Enquiries :
Tel: +27 (0)87 941 6842
Postal Address:
P.O. Box 781337,
Sandton, 2146
