Botswana, Animals

Buffalo

Above is a female Cape buffalo, seen here among her herd. Below is a male with a thicker boney crown between the horns.

The famous “big five” were not chosen merely because they are big. In the colonial era of the 19th century, these animals were the most dangerous to hunt on foot.

Though not predators, we were warned about buffalo. When we got too close to elephants, they became visibly agitated and mock-charged us once or twice. Buffalo give no such warning.

They are also persistent. Once aggressive, they will continue chasing you and attack. Some say that buffalo kill more humans than lions.

In Chobe Park, we found the road blocked by a huge herd of buffalo. Hundreds of animals were slowly crossing, perhaps even a thousand. We watched this very impressive display and waited quite a while for them to let us proceed.