The terms “bison” and “buffalo” are often used interchangeably, causing confusion about these large, horned animals. While both belong to the Bovidae family, they are distinct species. This article clarifies their scientific distinctions, unique features, and geographic distributions.
The Definitive Answer
Bison and buffalo are different animals, classified into separate genera within the Bovidae family. Bison belong to the genus Bison, encompassing the American bison (Bison bison) and the European bison (Bison bonasus). True buffalo species are found in the genera Bubalus (water buffalo) and Syncerus (African or Cape buffalo). The common misnomer of calling American bison “buffalo” likely originated from early European explorers who saw similarities to familiar buffalo species, or possibly from the French word “boeuf,” meaning beef.
Key Distinguishing Features
A key difference is their physical appearance, particularly the shoulder hump. Bison possess a prominent, muscular hump that supports their large heads and aids in plowing snow for winter forage. True buffalo species, such as African and water buffalo, lack this pronounced hump, exhibiting a more even backline.
Their coats and head shapes also offer clear distinctions. Bison have thick, shaggy coats, especially around their heads and shoulders, often featuring a noticeable “beard.” This dense fur provides insulation in colder climates. Buffalo, living in warmer regions, have thinner, less shaggy coats and lack the characteristic beard. Bison also have larger heads in proportion to their bodies compared to buffalo.
The horns of bison and buffalo also differ significantly in shape and size. Bison horns are shorter, sharper, and curve upward. American bison horns, for instance, average two to two-and-a-half feet long. Cape buffalo have thick, helmet-like horns that fuse at the base and sweep downward before curling upward, resembling a handlebar mustache. Water buffalo boast impressive, long, crescent-shaped horns that can span up to six feet from tip to tip.
Geographic Habitats
The natural habitats of bison and buffalo are geographically distinct. American bison are native to North America, historically roaming vast grasslands, prairies, and river valleys from Alaska to the Atlantic Seaboard. Today, wild populations are found in national parks and reserves across the United States and Canada, such as Yellowstone National Park and Wood Buffalo National Park. European bison, also known as wisent, are native to Europe, inhabiting mixed forests and grasslands in countries like Poland and Belarus.
True buffalo species are found on different continents. African buffalo, specifically the Cape buffalo, are indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa, thriving in diverse grassland habitats, savannas, and woodlands near water sources. Water buffalo are native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, preferring wet environments like swamps, marshes, and densely vegetated river valleys. Domesticated water buffalo are now found globally, including parts of Europe, South America, and Australia.