Hartebeest inhabit open grasslands and lightly wooded savannas. Hunts typically start by glassing from elevated ridges to spot herds, then stalking cautiously while remaining downwind. These antelope are extremely alert and will bolt with a rocking‑horse gait at the slightest disturbance, yet curiosity sometimes causes them to stop and look back, giving a fleeting shot opportunity. Because they often inhabit wide‑open plains, long shots are common and medium‑calibre rifles are recommended. Hartebeest are most active in early morning and late afternoon; during midday, they rest in the sun or shade, depending on the temperature.

Hartebeest numbers total around 360,000 animals across more than 25 countries. While the species as a whole is considered of least concern, some subspecies are threatened. Swayne’s and Tora hartebeest in Ethiopia are endangered and not huntable; hybridisation among Coke’s, Lelwel and Swayne’s hartebeest has created named forms such as Jackson’s and Neumann’s. Major threats include competition with livestock for grazing and ease of hunting due to their sedentary habits. Conservation organisations work with governments to establish wildlife corridors and train pastoralists in livestock management, linking premium livestock markets to conservation criteria. Regulated hunting generates revenue for habitat protection and helps maintain open rangelands.