Studies on reproduction in the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in Botswana

The technique of per-rectum examination of the genitalia of immobilized African buffalo (Syncerus caffer Sparrman) is descriptionbed and the findings compared with those in the domestic cow. During September and October in 1973 and 1974 a total of 201 buffalo from three areas in Ngamiland, Botswana were examined by this method. From the information obtained it is calculated that puberty in the female is usually attained between the age of 3-4 years and the mean age of sexual maturity, that is, the estimated age when 50% of the age-class has conceived, is 4,8 years. The calculated calving intervals are 20 months and 26 months for the 1973-74 and 1974-75 seasons respectively, the difference being attributed to differences in rainfall, and in turn nutrition, in the seasons preceding each examination. Although even very old buffalo may be fertile, old age is accompanied by an increased calving interval and fewer offspring. The duration of lactation is approximately 10-12 months. Most births occur from November to April with a definite peak during January and February when nutritional conditions are optimum for the mother.