A large and powerful bovine, the African Buffalo reaches shoulder heights of up to 5 feet and a mass of as much as 1800 pounds. Both sexes have horns, those of the bulls are characterised by a heavy boss and upward curved horns as is evident in the noble male in the top left and female across from him. Mainly preyed upon by lions, when a herd member is attacked, others will rush to its defence. Our guide said that collectively a number of buffalo are more than capable to stave off an attack by an entire pride of lions. A wounded buffalo bull is regarded as most dangerous by hunters.

We were surprised to learn that the lovable little creatures in the bottom row, Rock Dassies, are the African elephant’s closest living relative. In spite of the size difference, their close evolutionary relationship is deduced from similarities in the structure of the feet and teeth. Rock Dassies like basking in the sun on large rocks, particularly during mornings and late afternoons. Dassies are heavily prayed upon by eagles, caracal and leopards.