The bontebok is a medium-sized antelope with a convex forehead and elongated muzzle, relatively level back and equally developed limbs. The soft, glossy coat is chestnut-brown, darker on the neck and hindquarters, with purple-black blotches on the sides and upper limbs. The facial blaze, rump, belly and lower legs are white. The S-shaped horns, well developed on both sexes, are angular and curved, ringed, except for the tips, and 14-to-15 inches long. The body weight is 140-to-170 pounds and shoulder height is 34-to-40 inches. The male is slightly larger than the female; both are most active morning and evening.

Mature bontebok males are solitary and compete for the females. Most competition is through postural displays and ritualistic sparring with the horns, rather than serious fighting. Animals living in the northern section of their range have small territories occupied only during mating season. Those living in the southern section occupy small territories, possibly for life. Female groups wander from one territory to another.

A single calf is normally born after a gestation of seven-to-eight months. By the time the youngster is a week old, it is a strong runner and capable of great endurance. Females are sexually mature at two-to-three years. Males do not mate until they are old enough to successfully compete with elder bulls. Once considered to be the rarest antelope in the world, careful conservation has ensured the bontebok’s survival.