Description
Originally from the Indian subcontinent, the water buffalo (bubalus bubalis) was introduced as livestock in the northern provinces of Argentina. On these marginal lands buffaloes quickly established feral populations that spread over the years to the surrounding marshes and wetlands. It was later introduced in central Argentina (La Pampa) were the thick forests of calden trees provided a perfect habitat for the species. Asian water buffalo is not as aggressive as it’s southern Africa counterpart, but these are massive animals (big males can weigh over a ton) that when cornered or wounded can easily turn against the hunter.
The Hunt
El Carrizal is home to herds of Asian water buffalo that roam the lagoons and the dense bush that surrounds them offering heart stopping close range stalks. Finding high scoring trophy animals, however, requires patience and perseverance as old bulls are very difficult to hunt. Buffaloes can be hunted year round.
Guns & Ammo
The minimum caliber for water buffalo is the venerable .375 H&H loaded with premium expanding bullets. Lager calibers such as the various .416s, .458, .404, .470 are perfect. Shots are usually under 50 yards so low magnification scopes and/or open sights are the best choices.