How to Tell the Difference Between Bison and Buffalo?

The difference between buffalo and bison traces back to early settlers in the western United States who mistakenly called the American bison buffalo. This confusion could have stemmed from the French word for beef or the resemblance of bison hides to the “buff” coats worn by soldiers back then. Despite their distinct characteristics, many still refer to bison as buffalo. Although they may seem alike, these creatures belong to different species with unique physical features, habitats, diets, and behaviors.

When it comes to appearance, bison stand out from buffalo due to their larger size and distinctive build. Male bison can weigh up to 2,000 pounds while females reach around 1,000 pounds. They are recognizable by their shaggy mane, thick neck, and a sizable muscular hump on their back that aids them in pushing through snow during harsh winters. Their horns are short and thick, complemented by short tails with a dark brown or black coat. On the other hand, African Cape buffalo are generally smaller than bison; males weigh up to 1,500 pounds and females up to 1,100 pounds. Unlike bison’s hump-less physique; Cape buffalos have broad horns that can span up to a meter forming a handlebar shape with a thick base.

Apart from physical attributes; differences in natural habitats also set apart bison from buffalo. Bison are indigenous to North America where they traverse prairies; river valleys; and plains across countries like the United States; Canada; and Mexico even venturing into parts of Europe and New Zealand adapting well in colder climates such as Alaska & Canada. In contrast; African Cape buffalo thrive in East & Southern Africa’s savannas & grasslands flourishing amidst diverse environments like semi-arid bushland; montane grasslands & lowland rainforests near water sources.

Both animals being herbivores exhibit varying diets aligned with their respective habitats & adaptations for feeding purposes – Bison being generalist feeders consuming grasses along with shrubs; bark; and berries based on availability while requiring less food overall compared to Cape buffalo but more per pound of body weight. In contrast; Cape buffalos boast highly adapted digestive systems allowing them sustenance on tough fibrous grasses enabling survival where food is scarce.

Behaviorally, significant differences exist between these species – Cape buffalo exhibit strong herding instincts known for anti-predator behavior gathering herds of hundreds occasionally reaching thousands during rainy seasons in Serengeti protecting against predators like lions. Female & young Buffalo dominate herds while males form bachelor groups. Known for charging hunters even when injured, they hold status as part of Africa’s Big Five game animals due to their fierce nature. Bison, on the other hand, prefer solitary life or small group living though some may seasonally migrate displaying less migratory tendencies compared with Cape buffalos exhibiting a more docile demeanor.

In conclusion; despite visual similarities, both species -bison & cape buffalos- stand as distinct evolved beings adapted to different environments showcasing unique traits defining them individually distinguishing one from another reflecting diversity and thriving ecosystems symbolizing continents’ natural heritage.