The cape buffalo, also known as the African buffalo, is a large mammal native to the grasslands and savannas of Sub-Saharan Africa. It is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous animals in Africa due to its unpredictable and aggressive behavior and has even been known to attack and kill humans who get too close. The cape buffalo is one of the largest grazing animals on the continent and, although they have a number of predators, including lions, crocodiles, and leopards, an adult cape buffalo is often able to fend off attackers. 

A social animal, cape buffalo live in herds of up to several hundred individuals. They are a keystone species in many African ecosystems, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their habitat by keeping vegetation levels in check and fertilizing the soil with their dung. They are considered a vulnerable species, with populations declining due to habitat loss, poaching, and overhunting. In protected areas, the species is doing well and populations are stable, while in areas without protection, their numbers continue to decline. The cape buffalo is an iconic species in Africa, and its continued survival is important for the preservation of the continent's biodiversity and cultural heritage.