African Buffalo

Scientific Name : Syncerus caffer

This massive relative of the domestic cow is regarded as one of Africa's 'Big Five' due to its appeal as a trophy animal among hunters. Buffalo are completely dependent upon surface water, so are absent from arid and semi-arid regions but are widespread and common in savannah, woodland and forest environments, although few now survive beyond the borders of protected areas. Buffalo are host to several diseases which may be lethal to domestic cattle and so have been eliminated from areas suitable for ranching. Buffalo are gregarious animals with herds typically numbering several hundred, but sometimes over 1000. Several adult bulls, in prime breeding condition, accompany the herd which otherwise consists of cows, their calves and juveniles of both sexes. Old bulls, past their prime, keep each other company in bachelor groups. Their large size and gregarious nature make buffalo difficult quarry for predators but some lion prides actually specialise in hunting these big bovines. Older bulls are typically targeted by lions although it may take a pride several hours to corner, pin down and dispatch a belligerent buffalo. Calves may be preyed upon by clans of spotted hyena which will disturb a herd after dark to cause confusion and separate young from their mothers. Buffalo are non-selective bulk grazers which favour taller grasses. By munching on these grasses and trampling rank grass underfoot, they open up areas for other more selective herbivores such as wildebeest and zebra. In common with many herbivores, buffalo herds move in response to rainfall and the resultant onset of nutritious grass growth. Herds often break up into smaller units during the wet season, but gather in large numbers again when seasonal rains come to an end.