The buffalo and the bison differ in their geographic distribution, shape of the horns, and fur. Buffaloes are found in Africa and Asia, have horns that are curved backwards and upwards, and short, thick fur. The Difference Between Buffalo And Bison is given here in detail.
Bison are native to North America, have straight, pointed horns, and long, dense fur. Both species are herbivorous and live in herds.
Difference Between Buffalo And Bison In Tabular Form
| Characteristics | Buffalo | Bison |
|
Africa and Asia | North America |
| 2. Gender | Buffaloes (Bubalus) | Bison (Bison) |
| 3. Size | Varies by species | usually bigger |
| 4. shape of the horns | Curved back and up | straight and pointed |
| 5. Fur | short and bushy | long and dense |
| 6. Behavior | Guild, lives in herds | Guild, lives in herds |
| 7. Diet | herbivorous | herbivorous |
| 8. Habitat | savannahs and wetlands | grasslands and forests |
| 9. State of conservation | Diversity of conservation status | Near Threatened (American bison species) |
What is a buffalo?
Buffalo belong to the genus Bubalus and are found mainly in Africa and Asia. There are several species of buffalo, such as the water buffalo, the Cape buffalo, and the mountain buffalo.
These animals are known for their imposing size and robust appearance. Buffaloes have a large head, horns that are curved backwards and upwards, and short, thick fur.
They are gregarious animals and tend to live in packs led by a dominant male. Buffaloes are herbivores, feeding mainly on grass, leaves, and shoots. Its natural habitat includes savannas and wetlands.
What is a bison?
Bison, belonging to the genus Bison, are native to North America. These magnificent mammals are also known as American buffalo, although they are not related to the buffaloes mentioned above.
Bison are impressive animals in terms of size and strength. They have a massive body, straight, pointed horns, and long, dense fur that protects them from the elements.
Like buffalo, bison are gregarious animals that live in herds, especially in the North American grasslands and forests.
Their diet consists mainly of grass and other vegetables. Although once an abundant species, the American bison is currently in a near-threatened status due to hunting and habitat loss.
Conclusion
Despite their similar appearance, the buffalo and bison are distinct species with unique characteristics. While buffalo are found in Africa and Asia, bison are native to North America.
- Buffaloes have backward and upward curved horns, short thick fur, and are adapted to habitats such as savannahs and wetlands.
- On the other hand, bison possess straight, pointed horns, long, dense fur, and are found mainly in grasslands and forests.
Both species are herbivorous and live in herds, but American bison face a more delicate conservation status.
Appreciating the differences and similarities between these majestic creatures helps us understand and preserve the diversity of the animal kingdom.
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