Cape Buffalo

When grown these animals can push over a train - or, so I have heard.

Here is a short account of another side of them.

I don't really remember how it happened. There was a baby cape buffalo in the animal nursery. I suspect I started talking to it. I talked to them all.

I know one time he was already up and at the fence when I got there. I started talking to him. I realized his horns were not breaking the skin yet but I started rubbing his head there and he loved it. He did not want me to stop. I was hooked.

Another guest came by and said "He'll bite you." I answered "No he won't. He knows I will bite back." I had no fear. I don't know if that was bravery or stupidity but I never got bitten.

The next two times he would start walking up to the front before I even rounded the last corner to get to him. I guess he could see me coming. Each time I just talked to him and rubbed that head. We would even go nose to nose. Like I said - bravery or stupidity.

The last time he was trying to come over the fence but he would let me push him back. If he wanted, he could have pushed me out of the way. I stayed for quite some time as I knew this was the last time I would see him. They were going to have to move him to the back where the fences were much higher.

The next time I went I heard he had gone over the fence and was out "walking with the guests." I never heard that verified but I can believe it.

Now, he is out on the island with two others and there is no way I can talk to him.

I will continue to share memories with you from time to time.