A while ago, a herd of Cape buffaloes were released on Mountainlands —a thrilling milestone for the reserve’s ongoing conservation efforts. As one of Africa’s most iconic herbivores, their presence is more than just symbolic; it marks a shift in the ecological rhythm of the landscape.
Cape buffaloes, with their massive frames and curved horns, are much more than a visual spectacle. When they arrived, they were kept in the Spirit Foundation bomas for a few weeks and once released, these formidable bovines began reshaping the terrain. Their constant movement through savannas and along stream banks has already resulted in the opening of densely vegetated areas, carving out natural corridors that allow smaller animals easier passage.
But perhaps the most valuable contribution of these buffaloes lies in their grazing habits. Unlike selective feeders such as zebra and blue wildebeest—who favour softer, shorter grasses—Cape buffaloes are bulk grazers. They consume large quantities of long, coarse grasses, which would otherwise accumulate and potentially choke out more delicate plant species. In doing so, they help maintain balance in the grassland ecosystem, preventing overgrowth and stimulating new vegetation.
Their return creates a dynamic synergy among the region’s grazers and browsers. While eland, kudu, and bushbuck focus on woody shrubs and leaves, the buffaloes tackle the tougher ground cover, harmonizing the herbivorous hierarchy. This layered grazing strategy enhances plant diversity promoting a healthier and more resilient environment.
Cape buffaloes are not just nature’s lawnmowers—they’re ecosystem engineers. Their impact reverberates well beyond the grass they munch. From shaping the land to supporting wildlife movement and biodiversity, their presence heralds a new chapter in Mountainlands’ ecological story.
