Syncerus caffer nanus
Congo buffaloes are powerful mammals and among Africa’s most successful grazers.Their robust build, with broad chests, large heads, and thick horns, equips them to thrive across various habitats.
Typically reddish-brown or dark mahogany with coarse bristly hair, male buffaloes are larger than females. Both sexes have backward-sweeping horns, though males’ horns are thicker and more robust. With large, fringed ears and keen hearing, Congo buffaloes are highly alert to potential dangers.
Congo buffalo herds are typically centred around females and their young, with smaller sub-groups sometimes joining the main herd.
Herds show impressive collective behaviour, coordinating to protect each other and even make group decisions when faced with danger.
Humans are their primary predator, with trophy hunting posing a significant threat. In the event of an attack, herds gather calves in the centre for protection, making it difficult for predators to single out an individual.