The Cape Buffalo is a rather unpredictable bovid and coming face-to-face with this member of the big five can be quite intimidating. They don’t actively do anything but it’s that blank, sociopathic buffalo stare that sends shivers down your spine. Interestingly enough, they rely more on their acute sense of smell to detect potential threats than their sight. They actually have a division in their herds called “Pathfinders” who utilise their keen sense of smell to create direction for the rest of the herd.
This week Jochen and guests witnessed something rare – the birth of a buffalo calf on the Africa on Foot traverse in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve.
In this instance, Jochen noticed the pathfinders leading the herd to the dam. It was then he caught a glimpse of the birth of a buffalo calf. Hidden behind the grass was a cow giving birth. Luckily, there was enough clarity in the thicket of vegetation to take these photos. Buffalo mate during the rainy season when there is an abudance of food. With such thick vegetation and nutritious grasses, it helps to supply essential nutrients to lactating cows.
Cows give birth in the midst of the herd and a newborn calf can stand within ten minutes of being born. It is only stable on its legs after a few weeks. During this period of time it is building its strength, becoming more co-ordinated and learning how to run with the rest of the herd.
We hope you enjoy this heartwarming game viewing experience. Did you know there is a sequel to this story? When the herd made their way to the dam, Jochen sped off to capture the rest of this event on camera and stumbled upon a hippo defending his dam from the buffalo herd.
This is what happens in the Klaserie, one event leads into another incredible wildlife moment !
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