The blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), also known as the Indian antelope, was introduced to Argentina a century ago and now thrives on open ranchlands. Adult males weigh 75–120 pounds, with spiralling horns and striking dark‑and‑white colouration. Their keen vision and speed make them a challenging quarry, and hunting them evokes the open‑country stalks of the Indian plains.
Blackbuck live in herds on open pampas and scrubby grasslands, rarely venturing into thick cover. Hunts begin by glassing expansive fields to locate a herd, then using terrain features and wind to approach within shooting range. On Rancho Salvaje’s 25 000‑acre La Pampa property and its 74 131‑acre ranch near Buenos Aires, guides lead hunters through dunes and low hills to stalk the largest buck before setting up for a shot. Because blackbuck hunts can be completed in a single day, they are often combined with bird shooting or other big game. Seasons are open year‑round; activity peaks in May and June, and outfitters recommend visiting during the small‑game season to enjoy multiple pursuits.
As an exotic species, blackbuck have no natural predators in Argentina, and hunting serves as a management tool to keep populations within ecological and agricultural limits. Healthy herds on private ranches provide income that incentivises landowners to maintain open grasslands and prevent blackbuck from expanding into cropland. Provincial regulations require hunters to carry valid licences and to harvest animals ethically, but there are typically no stringent quotas because blackbuck are not threatened. By targeting mature males and avoiding females with young, hunters help ensure sustainable herds.
Blackbuck are diurnal; males form bachelor groups while females and young graze in larger herds. In Argentina’s temperate climate they breed year‑round, so there are always bulls with hard horns; however, activity often increases from March to November when rutting males pursue females. Hunts near Buenos Aires offer convenient access—only two hours from the international airport—and allow visitors to experience traditional estancias and combine big game with wingshooting on the same trip.
Blackbuck can be found in the following location:
Blackbuck has the following variations:
- (Varieties to be confirmed)
