Hunters in general regard a wounded buffalo as being one of the most dangerous animals. Once a buffalo charges, only a well-placed bullet from a heavy caliber rifle can stop it. A charging buffalo presents a very difficult target for a brain shot and the massive horn bosses often deflect the bullet.

It is claimed that a buffalo can attain a speed of 50km/h. When not threatened, they are harmless, but their tendency to stampede when alarmed could be dangerous if one happens to be in the way.

Their major enemy is the lion, but even lions stand a good chance of losing their lives when attacking a buffalo as it will go down fighting to the last breath. When a herd is threatened by lions, it will form a protective circle with the bulls on the perimeter. Lions usually try to stampede the herd so that one is separated and is then attacked.

Buffalo sometimes fall prey to crocodiles and young animals may be killed by other larger predators. Figures indicate that only 6-9 calves out of every 20 born reach maturity. A single calf is born after a gestation period of about 330-346 days.

Buffalo harbor foot- and- mouth disease, as well as "Buffalo" or "Corridor Disease". This is transmitted to domestic stock via the Brown Ear Tick. There is no treatment, cure or prophylactic against this disease. Many buffalo are also infected with tuberculosis.

Natal Game Ranchers' Association, in conjunction with Natal Parks Board, have embarked on a programme to breed genetically disease-free buffalo.

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