We have been very fortunate over the last few weeks to have numerous herds of buffalo moving through the wilderness. Some of these herds have been numbering a couple of hundred individuals! It seems that the perennial Sand River, together with the green and nutritious grasses, are a major attraction for these immense animals. The spin off is that not only are we getting some very interesting buffalo sightings but they are presenting numerous opportunities for wonderful photography. This morning I was out with some guests following a herd of about 500 buffalo as they literally stampeded for the Sand River…they were thirsty for a drink!
500 animals running, of any kind, creates some dust, but to have that many buffalo running along the sandy riverbanks seriously kicks up a cloud of sand. The dust, together with the morning light created a very eerie look and feel to the occasion. Luckily, I had my camera on hand and was able to capture some pictures which show quite nicely the dramatic nature of the dusty buffalo stampede. Enjoy
One male, in amongst the herd, takes a little more interest than the others in our vehicle
Endless backsides move through the riverbed. A carpet of dust sits on their backs.
The dust became so thick that at times one could barely make out the shapes and forms of monstrous buffalos
The herd must have been close on 500 individuals…all thirsty for some water in the midst of a dry lowveld winter
Pictures became artworks
A dramatic conclusion: hundreds of buffalo stampede and run into the distance. Movement, action and adrenalin pulsated through the dust
Written and photographed by Adam Bannister
thank you for the amazing pictures and acticles. I loves them quite much.
Awww…I would have loved to see them. I hope they will be back when we get there in August 🙂