Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer)

Although the African Buffalo has a little smaller body than its "cousin’s", the Asian Water Buffalo, is one of the most dangerous animals in Africa, with “The Black Death” as nickname.

Can weigh from 600 kg to 900 kg, and be 1,2 m to 1,7 m high and 3,5 m length. Its horns are curved and can reach 1,3 m from one edge to another.

He is among the "Big Five", the 5 animals considered to be the strongest in Africa, along with the Lion, Leopard, Elephant and Rhino. Its trophy is one of the most desirable in the world.

The Buffalos live in groups of 10 to 100 animals and are extremely protective among them. The nestling is always in the center of the herd, making the action of predators more difficult, with a less vulnerable target.

Males engage violent battles for the dominance over the group and consequently, over the female. Those duels are very important to form the defense of the animal throughout its life. When there is a threat for the group, the Buffalos stay extremely united and when some of them are captured by predators, the remaining of the herd return to try saving him.

Scenes of Buffalos standing against Lions are easily seen in nature programs, which is not surprising. This mountain of muscles can be found in several African Countries and its numbers have been increasing year after year, which demonstrates a great conservation work from the authorities.

Those are characteristics that make the African Buffalo a real "war tank".