The Cape Buffalo
The Cape Buffalo, scientifically known as Syncerus caffer, is a hefty creature that commands respect in the African savannah. Sporting a dark black or brown coat, they have distinctively thick horns adorning their heads that are used for defense. A heavyweight, the Cape buffalo tips the scales at 930 to 2,200 pounds and stands 3.3 to 5.6 feet tall. Despite their heavy build, they can run at speeds up to 35 miles per hour and are excellent swimmers. Their compelling presence underlines their position as one of Africa's "Big Five" game animals.
| Cape Buffalo | |
|---|---|
| Size | Height at shoulder: 1.0-1.7 meters (3.3-5.6 feet); Length: 1.7-3.4 meters (5.6-11.2 feet) |
| Weight | 500-1,000 kg (1,100-2,200 lbs) |
| Speed | Speed: 35 mph (56 km/hr) |
| Key Strength | Powerful charge and sharp horns |
| Biggest Weakness | Poor eyesight and slow movement |
| Scientific Name | Syncerus caffer |
| Family | Bovidae |
| Habitat | Grasslands, savannas, and forests |
| Geography | Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Diet | Herbivorous, feeding on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation |
| Lifespan | 15 years - 25 years |
The Cape Buffalo
The Cape Buffalo, scientifically known as Syncerus caffer, is a hefty creature that commands respect in the African savannah. Sporting a dark black or brown coat, they have distinctively thick horns adorning their heads that are used for defense. A heavyweight, the Cape buffalo tips the scales at 930 to 2,200 pounds and stands 3.3 to 5.6 feet tall. Despite their heavy build, they can run at speeds up to 35 miles per hour and are excellent swimmers. Their compelling presence underlines their position as one of Africa's "Big Five" game animals.
Fun Fact: Despite their serious demeanor, Cape Buffaloes have been observed engaging in play: chasing birds, mock-fighting, and high jumps.
| Cape Buffalo | |
|---|---|
| Size | Height at shoulder: 1.0-1.7 meters (3.3-5.6 feet); Length: 1.7-3.4 meters (5.6-11.2 feet) |
| Weight | 500-1,000 kg (1,100-2,200 lbs) |
| Speed | Speed: 35 mph (56 km/hr) |
| Key Strength | Powerful charge and sharp horns |
| Biggest Weakness | Poor eyesight and slow movement |
| Scientific Name | Syncerus caffer |
| Family | Bovidae |
| Habitat | Grasslands, savannas, and forests |
| Geography | Sub-Saharan Africa |
| Diet | Herbivorous, feeding on grasses, leaves, and other vegetation |
| Lifespan | 15 years - 25 years |
Cape Buffalo Matchups
We use AI to simulate matchups between the Cape Buffalo and other animals. Our simulation considers size, strength, and natural predatory behaviors to determine the most likely outcome.
Fun Fact: Cape Buffaloes communicate using a variety of vocal sounds ranging from grunts and bellows to roars!
Fun Fact: Males, also known as “bulls,” can grow horns up to an impressive size of 40 inches across—about the length of a standard yardstick plus 7 inches!