This Australia banteng hunting safari allows you to experience one of the last true free range frontiers of hunting.

water-buffalo-detail

Banteng were originally introduced from Thailand in 1849 to the Coburg Peninsula in the Northern Territories of Australia for an establishment of a British outpost called Port Essington with the original heard totaling 20 Banteng cattle (Bos javanicus) they were intended to be used as a food source. 

Today these wild and free ranging Banteng still live in the Coburg region and surrounding area. Dr. Corey Bradshaw conducted a study on these wild cattle in the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park and found that: 

  • The national park is home to the largest herd of wild and free range Banteng in the world
  • This herd represents a conservational importance to the now endangered breed in their home country
  • Are still pure bred Banteng
  • The herd is approximately 8,000-10,000 strong
  • Has adapted to interact positively with native bird populations 
  • Grazing by banteng minimizes potential dry grass build-up, thus limiting encroachment of seasonal fires. 
  • Limited overgrazing off the habitat especially compared to buffalo and feral pigs, and will change their diet from grass to drive leaf matter during the dry season. 
  • Because of the socio-economic niche the banteng has occupied both from hunting and for food, it has a role in helping to recover endangered wild populations in Asia where there are fewer than 500 left in the wild.

The banteng prefer to feed near a permanent water supply, when conditions are suitable they will drink daily. But during a drought they can survive several days without water. With an average height of 61-65 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 1300-1800 lbs, wild free range banteng are well known for being alert and flighty in their disposition typically disappearing into the deep jungle over confrontation. Female cow banteng are typically brown in colour, where the bulls can range from black to brown and tan, both with a large white rump and white sock markings on their legs. In the wild, banteng can live up to 20 years old, maturing at between 2-3 years old they typically will rut in October/November.

BANTENG HUNTING AUSTRALIA
...A Few Things To Know

When Banteng hunting in Australia you are looking for those large old mature bulls. Horns on a bull banteng will vary from 18-25 inches in length per side, and bases 10-15 inches. Cows also have horns but much smaller in length and mass. There are 2 main classifications on trophy hunting banteng that are wild and free ranging. Measurements of horns are based on the Safari Club International scoring system where a silver medal Australian banteng will go up to 66 4/6 inches combined (adding both horn length and base measurements together). Over 66 5/8 is considered gold medal. Hunting banteng in Australia you'll utilize 4x4 vehicle driving jungle roads looking for crossings to water in the morning, it is not uncommon to see banteng when driving out of camp which is located right on the ocean. From there you'll spot and stalk with assistance looking for a big trophy bull. Recommended caliber for banteng hunting in Australia is the 375 or above, with shooting distances typically under 100 yards. This is one of the pure and genuine hunts that you will remember for a lifetime. Banteng hunting in Australia is as much about the hunt as it is about the trophy, and it is a great combination with water buffalo.

In the area there are wild pigs and some free range sambar deer. Recommended hunting months are June-September when all the roads and ground is dry and easy to access. 

Ready to inquire about this hunt? Click on the find out more button to get in touch and we'll help you start planning your epic New Zealand safari hunt!

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