Wild water buffalo

The wild water buffalo, also known as the Asian buffalo, Asiatic buffalo, or wild Asian buffalo, is a large bovine native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This impressive animal has been listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List since 1986, with a global population estimated at around 3,400 individuals, mostly found in India. It is believed to be the ancestor of the domestic water buffalo.

Initially classified as Bos arnee and later as Bubalus arnee, the wild water buffalo is easily recognized by its ash-gray to black skin, long horns, and considerable size. Both males and females have horns that can grow up to 2 meters in length. These buffaloes typically inhabit wet grasslands, swamps, and river valleys in countries such as India, Nepal, Bhutan, Thailand, and Cambodia.

The species faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, hunting, interbreeding with domestic buffaloes, and competition for resources with livestock. Conservation efforts are in place, including legal protections in some countries and its listing on CITES Appendix III.

Wild water buffaloes exhibit complex social behaviors. They form herds led by older females, while males often form bachelor groups. These animals are grazers, feeding on grasses, sedges, herbs, fruits, and occasionally crops. They also face predation from tigers, crocodiles, and bears.

The decline in the wild water buffalo population and the various threats they face underscore the urgent need for conservation measures to ensure the survival of this iconic species.