Water Buffalo
1. Water buffalo are not native to Asia.
In spite of being commonly associated with Asia, and being also known as Asiatic water buffalo, they are not actually native to the continent. The species originated in Africa and were brought to Asia by early human settlers thousands of years ago.
2. You have probably tried their milk.
Compared to standard cow’s milk, water buffalo milk contains higher levels of protein, calcium, and iron while sporting less cholesterol and lactose. Though not yet a popular drink in America, it is commonly used to make delicious, Italian-style mozzarella cheeses! If you haven’t tried any mozzarella di bufala, it’s time to treat yourself.
3. They are used for farming and transportation.
Water buffalo are often used as work animals in farming and transportation. They are well suited to these tasks due to their strength and endurance, and are particularly useful in areas where mechanized equipment is not available.
4. Endangered species.
Wild water buffaloes are an endangered species due to loss of habitat and hunting, with less than 4,000 remaining. Their numbers are also diminishing as they are interbred with domesticated water buffalo.
5. Domestication of the water buffalo.
The water buffalo has been domesticated by humans for thousands of years and is inhumanely used to pull heavy machinery, carry heavy loads, plow and transport people. Water buffalo are commercially farmed around the globe for their milk, skin, butterfat and meat.
6. Diet of a water buffalo.
Water buffaloes eat many aquatic plants. During floods, they dive in and out of the water carrying large quantities of edible plants. Water buffalos eat sedges, Arundo donax, a species of Cyperaceae, Eichhornia crassipes and Juncaceae.
7. Distribution of Water Buffalos.
95% of the population of water buffaloes is in Asia, including both the river and swamp buffaloes. And more than 3 million reside in the Philippines.