Being in the presence of the African buffalo enhances respect for the Big Five in ways that one never imagined respecting nature and its creatures. However, I must admit that I find their ruminating rhythm is hypnotic and therapeutic.
Once we found an interesting scar in the shape of the map of Africa on a buffalo. Obviously I didn't notice it at that time but later when I was looking at my photographs I was amazed to see it. Have a look for yourself... I swear it's not a doctored photo.
Buffalo are fascinating animals. Incredibly strong and have camaraderie amongst the herd. When one buffalo is in trouble and its call is heard by its herd, the buffalos will respond. And they respond with strength in numbers which almost always scares off the predator.
The buffalo are very strong, and they can trample a predator if it is caught in a stampede or fling them with their horns many feet in the air which can often deal a fatal blow to the opponent or even injure them severely which will probably hamper their ability to kill or participate in hunts and eventually lead to being killed by another more able predator.
I find the African buffalo rather curious and while they are aware of their strength, I’ve seen them faced with a rather unusual dilemma.
On one of our drives, we came upon a waterhole where a herd of buffalo were enjoying their sundowner. We parked at a short distance to take in the scene. The scene came a repeated shrieking sound. Our guide pointed to a stressed out “lapwing,” pacing left to right with her wings out.
The mother lapwing was protecting her eggs in her ground-based nest at the edge of the waterhole. Looking at this scene play out, I would find myself clinching my fist and at times grinding my teeth in desperation as the heavy buffalo came toward the waterhole and then head back out after their drink, while passing dangerously close and some even casually walking over the nest of eggs. All this while the mother lapwing would continue to shriek, pacing from left to right to get the attention of the buffalo to stay clear of her nest.
It seemed to work. Till the time when we left the scene the starling mother still had her egg intact. It is fascinating to see how a lapwing builds her nest.
Nature has its own rhythm. To see the mother, communicate with one of the strongest of the Big Five and manage to save her future babies, was an incredible event to witness. It reminded me of the David and Goliath story, but without any fatalities.
And now on a lighter note. It's always nice to see nature smiling back at you. A buffalo that decided put on a smile and pose for me.
Comments