African Buffalo Facts: Size, Weight, Behaviour and Where to See Them in Uganda
One of Africa's Big Five, seen in large herds in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo.
The African buffalo, also called the Cape buffalo, is a large, heavily built grazer. Adult bulls commonly weigh around 500 to 900 kilograms and stand about 1.4 to 1.7 metres at the shoulder. They live in herds that can number in the hundreds, and old bulls are often found alone or in small groups.
Buffalo are among the animals most responsible for human fatalities in Africa, so keep to the vehicle on game drives. They are common in Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley. See Big Five safaris in Uganda.
This guide is part of our animals of Uganda and East Africa guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris.
At a glance
- Weight: About 500 to 900 kg
- Herd size: Dozens to hundreds
- Big Five: Yes
- Uganda parks: Queen Elizabeth, Murchison, Kidepo
Behaviour
Buffalo graze mostly at dawn and dusk and rest in the shade or in mud during the heat. They defend the herd against predators, including lions.
Where to See Them
Open savannah in the parks is best. See the Uganda wildlife guide.
Want to see them? Send us your dates and we will build a Uganda safari around the wildlife you want.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Africa's Big Five Animals: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo and Rhino in Uganda
- Animals in Uganda: A Complete Guide to African Animals You Can See on Safari
- Why Are Hippos So Aggressive? Facts About Hippos in Uganda
- Shoebill Stork Size and Facts: Height, Wingspan, Habitat and Where to See It
- Animals of Uganda and East Africa: Gorilla, Chimpanzee, Big Five and Bird Fact Guides
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