BUFFALOES IN MASAI MARA

“The water lovers, referred to as African Buffaloes or Cape Buffaloes, stay in herds of over 100 (territorial) and are very aggressive in nature. That’s why they have never been domesticated in Asia. These formidable species weigh 800 kg, with females always keeping a close eye on the young ones. They are herbivores by nature and primarily feed on grass. The following are the characteristics of the buffaloes:
They are very big and strong. It’s quite amazing to observe these huge buffaloes, weighing between 300-860 kg, 1.8-3.4 meters long, 1-1.7 meters tall, with a massive head, enlarged horns, broad chest, and sturdy legs. Predators fear large species and often attack them in groups to bring them down. In most cases, some leave the battlefield with injuries.
Buffaloes are dark, moody, and tough. Males are more aggressive than females and frequently compete for dominance. However, they cannot challenge the true kings of the wild, given the sharp teeth and claws that these big species possess. Buffaloes have thick hides covered in brown-black hair, which helps them blend into the environment, especially during night sessions, protecting them from the hungry lions that are active during the night.
They live near water bodies. These species consume 40 liters of water daily and, as a result, they always stay near water bodies, woodlands, and open veld. They sometimes roll in mud, especially the grumpy bulls. If you want to see a variety of these creatures, position yourself around water sources in the Masai Mara National Reserve.
They are highly protective. Buffaloes stand at attention, forming a circle to protect their weak and young ones. Lions must be very strategic to take down a herd of these vigorous buffaloes. If they succeed, they often leave with serious injuries, and at times, they are defeated and seek refuge in trees.
Buffaloes never forget a wrong. They have a remarkable memory and can recall events that happened years ago. Other animals in the wild that attack them do so at their own risk because buffaloes remember the pain and may retaliate. There are recorded instances of them putting down some cubs who happened to harm their members.
They have an excellent sense of smell. Surprisingly, they don’t see very well but can smell something nearby from a distance.
Buffaloes usually mate from March to May, with a gestation period of 9-11 months. The young ones suckle for almost a year. Indeed, mothers have a strong bond with their young ones, referred to as calves (twins are rare in these species).
There are other animal species in the Masai Mara, including the white and black striped Zebras, Giraffes, Rhinos, Lions, Leopards, Antelopes, Wildebeest, Gazelles, to mention but a few. Tourists can take a break in comfortable lodges during their safaris. These lodges offer ample parking space, mini bars, restaurants, clean washrooms, free internet, and include places like Fig Tree Camp, Mara River Lodge, Royal Mara Safari Lodge, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Muthu Keekorok Lodge, and many others.
To witness the buffaloes is to revive weary souls and recapture a sense of belonging. Don’t miss out on visiting this area.”