Yes, buffalo have tails. This important anatomical feature is present on all species commonly referred to by that name, including the American Bison and the African and Asian true buffalo species. The tail is an extension of the spinal column, composed of caudal vertebrae, muscles, tendons, and blood vessels. This structure is necessary for the animal’s comfort and social interaction within its herd.
What the Tail Looks Like
The buffalo tail is relatively short compared to the animal’s massive body, extending downward from the rump. It is thick and muscular at the base, allowing the animal to generate considerable force for movement. The tail tapers toward the tip into a thinner, more flexible section. The entire length is covered in hair, though concentration and length vary. The most noticeable feature is the distinct tuft of long, coarse hair at the very end, often termed the “tail switch.” For an American Bison, the tail can measure between 30 and 95 centimeters, ending in this dark brush of hair.
How the Tail Is Used
The primary action of the tail is physical defense against biting insects, such as flies and mosquitoes. The muscular base allows the animal to execute a rapid, forceful side-to-side motion. This motion creates a concentrated airflow that deters insects from landing on the animal’s hindquarters, generating enough velocity to swat insects or prevent them from landing.
Beyond insect control, the tail serves as an instrument of non-verbal communication within the herd. A relaxed animal lets its tail hang low, occasionally twitching to dislodge pests. However, a tail held high in an erect, flag-like position signals agitation, high alertness, or an impending charge. This upright posture communicates alarm or aggression, serving as a crucial cue for other herd members and a warning sign to potential threats.
Tail Differences in Bison and Buffalo
The common confusion arises because the American Bison is frequently called a buffalo, though they belong to different genera within the family Bovidae. Both the American Bison and the true buffalo species, such as the African Cape Buffalo and the Asian Water Buffalo, possess tails with the same structure and function. The differences lie mainly in hair distribution and relative length.
The American Bison’s tail tends to be shorter and less hairy along its length compared to the massive shaggy coat covering the rest of its body. Conversely, the tails of the African Cape Buffalo and the Water Buffalo appear slightly longer in proportion to their bodies and may have sparser hair along the main section. Despite these anatomical distinctions, the biological purpose of the tail remains the same across all these large bovids. It is a tool for comfort and for maintaining the social order and safety of the herd.