The African buffalo is a massive, cattle-like mammal and one of the most successful large grazers in Africa. Unlike domestic cattle, it has never been domesticated. Its herds shape grasslands, and it is a key prey species for lions.
Interesting facts
- The African buffalo is one of the Big Five and has a reputation as one of Africa’s most dangerous animals.
- In old males, the bases of the horns fuse into a solid shield called a boss.
- Herds can number from a few dozen to more than a thousand animals.
- Old bulls that leave the herd are nicknamed ‘dagga boys’, from a word for mud, because they spend so much time wallowing.
- Buffalo will mob lions to defend herd members.
- The smaller, reddish forest buffalo lives in the rainforests of Central and West Africa.
Behaviour
Buffalo live in mixed herds of females, young and males, and in smaller bachelor groups. They graze mostly at night and in the cool parts of the day, and must drink daily. Herd members defend each other fiercely against predators.
Breeding and young
Calves are born mainly in the rainy season, after a gestation of about 11 months. A calf can walk within hours and stays close to its mother in the centre of the herd.
Threats and conservation
Habitat loss, hunting for meat, competition with livestock and diseases such as bovine tuberculosis. Populations are declining outside protected areas, leading to a Near Threatened listing.
Where to see it
- Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Chobe and Okavango Delta, Botswana
- Serengeti and Katavi national parks, Tanzania
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
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