Cape buffalo
Cape buffalo belong to the order of even-toed ungulates, distinguished primarily by their robust build and, of course, their sometimes impressively long horns.
Appearance
In this case, the males can reach a body weight of up to 900 kilograms, with a body length of 210 to 300 centimeters; the females are on average smaller. The horns of the African buffalo serve, on the one hand, as African mammals usually do, as defensive weapons, but are also used in dominance fights. These can grow up to 100 centimeters long, with a curved shape that meets above the forehead.
Habitat
Where is the main habitat of this buffalo species? Above all, these animals are found in Central and South Africa, although the very southern regions are avoided. The animals' favorite habitat is the savanna, where large herds can easily find food. However, these buffalo can also be found in forested areas, especially if there is sufficient water nearby. This is important for the African buffalo, as they can hardly regulate their fluid balance through the food they consume.
Behavior
Normally, the buffalo live in small herds of 3 to 12 animals, with an experienced female always leading the others. However, it can also happen that these mammals form large groups of over 2000 individuals, especially when food is abundant or they are all migrating to another region. This group usually only stays together for a short time and separates again as soon as food becomes scarce.
To avoid the heat of the savanna, the animals usually feed at night and rest in the shade during the day. However, this does not protect them from predators such as lions, against which they behave very aggressively. With their long horns, they are quite capable of fending off several predators to protect themselves and the group.
