African Buffalo

Buffel · Syncerus caffer

A heavy, ox-like animal with a black coat and large curved horns that join across the forehead like a helmet. Buffalo gather in big herds for safety, sometimes hundreds strong, and are never far from water. They have a reputation for being tough and protective, and will band together to chase off lions threatening the herd.

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How to identify it

The horns meeting in a thick central 'boss' across the forehead is unique among Kruger's large grazers.

Look for its tracks

Big cloven hoof in two broad rounded halves, cattle-sized — about as wide as your hand.

Where to see it in Kruger

Found park-wide near water and grassland; large herds are common in the central region around the Olifants River.

Did you know

A herd of buffalo will sometimes team up to rescue a calf from lions, charging in to drive the cats off.

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