Disease-free African Cape buffalo

Habitat:

A huge herd of buffalo graced us with their presence on a game drive one day. Approx 20 individuals walked right in front of our car to get to the water hole and salt block placed in the park by the rangers. I have to admit, I was quite nervous when they were all going past. Once at the salt block, the youngsters were chased away by the adult bulls until they had had their share. They were very playful with each other, it was a great experience.

Notes:

Tuberculosis and foot and mouth disease are two diseases which can affect buffalo in areas where these diseases are prone to cause outbreaks (such as in the Kruger Park). In Mokala national park however, all the buffalo are disease free. The extreme variance in summer and winter temperatures make it difficult for pathogens to survive, allowing the buffalo to stay in optimal condition (Mokala National park official information guide).