Robust and well-armed, African buffalos make powerful rivals to their enemies. Their horns fuse to form a mighty weapon for combat and protective shield over their heads. As they congregate in large herds of up to 500, they create a formidable force. But while buffalos are known for their fierce demeanour and undeniable strength, these animals also have an achilles heel.
Buffalos have poor eyesight and hearing, and are vulnerable to infectious diseases. Their most dramatic decline in population occurred during the 1890s rinderpest epidemic. The disease originated in European cattle and later spread throughout Africa, decimating the buffalo population. Today, they are still susceptible to illnesses such as bovine tuberculosis and foot-and-mouth disease. Although these do not cause immediate health effects, chronic tuberculosis can impact buffalos’ ability to reproduce. They are also key transmitters of disease to other wildlife and livestock, giving them a reputation as villainous bovine.
But these mighty creatures need our protection. The health of African buffalos is fundamental in ensuring the wellbeing of other animals and ecosystems. The IUCN classifies them as near threatened, with roughly 400 000 adult buffalos remaining. In certain parts of South Africa, herds are monitored and their movement is restricted by a red line located below the Kruger National Park. Beyond this point, buffalos remain disease-free and can procreate naturally. Conservation efforts are helping African buffalos lead the fight against disease. Saving these fierce bovines is just a matter of seeing beyond their fiery temperament.
