Subtypes

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Syncerus caffer caffer

The cape buffalo is the largest subspecies of African buffalo and is found in southern and east Africa. They are the heaviest and tend to be the most aggressive. They are almost black with large horns.

Range: Their range is fragmented but they can be found throughout southern and east Africa. Their range overlaps with the forest buffalo and the Sudanese. 

Habitat: Savanna and grassland

Size: Cape buffalo can reach 870 kg (1920 lb) but tend to average from 590 kg to 751 kg.

Life Span: 11-22 years in the wild; 16-29 years in captivty.

Feeding: Herbivore

Reproduction: Polygynandrous. Mating can occur at any time but peak during wet seasons. They have a gestation period of 340 days and typically have 1 calf with twins being very rare. Calves can wean any time between 4 to 18 months depending on life circumstances, specifically if the mother is present or not. It takes calves 1-2 years for independence and they dont reach sexual maturity until 4.5 years for males and 5 years for females.

Conservation Status: Near threatened. Adapt readily to captivity.

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Full Classification:

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