Water Buffalo (Bubalus Bubalis) Is a Large, Bovine Animal, Frequently Used As Livestock
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Husbandry Guidelines For: WWaatteerr BBuuffffaalloo Photo by J.Sheehan, Tinkerbell, 2011 Photo by J.Sheehan, Jack, 2011 Bubalus bubalis Mammalia: Bovinae Compiler: Jessica Sheehan Date of Preparation: February 2011 Western Sydney Institute of TAFE, Richmond Course Name and Number: Captive Animals Certificate III 18913 Lecturer: Graeme Phipps, Jacki Salkeld, Brad Walker, 2 DISCLAIMER These husbandry guidelines were produced by the compiler/author at TAFE NSW – Western Sydney Institute, Richmond College, N.S.W. Australia as part assessment for completion of Certificate III in Captive Animals. Since the husbandry guidelines are the result of student project work, care should be taken in the interpretation of information therein, - in effect, all care taken but no responsibility is assumed for any loss or damage that may result from the use of these guidelines. It is offered to the ASZK Husbandry Manuals Register for the benefit of animal welfare and care. Husbandry guidelines are utility documents and are ‘works in progress’, so enhancements to these guidelines are invited. 3 WORK HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS Water buffalo, like cattle, are herd animals and creatures of habit with strong territorial instincts. They hesitate to move into unknown areas, are sensitive to noise and can be frightened or spooked easily. They have poor depth perception but good panoramic vision, so they can see to their sides, but not their hind quarters, so do not approach them from their back side. Generally they are docile animals, but do kick and they kick forward and out so safety precautions should include long trousers, gloves, and shin guards if necessary. Ergonomic injuries such as back strain can occur from handling and restraining water buffalo due to their size and strength. Therefore, individuals with pre-existing back or joint problems may need assistance. When compared with other domestic livestock, the water buffalo is generally a healthy animal. (Care and Use of Water Buffalo, 2012) Temperament of the individual animal should be taken into account, as majority of water buffalo have a placid and docile nature, not aggressive towards humans. If a buffalo feels threatened however, it may charge and thrash its head from side to side, posing a potential danger. Regardless of temperament, risks are still present, for example, accidental crushing, horn impaling etc. and the animal should never be regarded as harmless. Any person, keeper or otherwise, should be trained on the correct procedures for coming into contact or handling water buffalo and the risks involved, or to be accompanied by a trained staff member. Knowing the warning signs and behaviours of an uncomfortable or aggressive animal will assist in preventing dangerous circumstances occurring. As an added precaution, enclosed footwear should be worn at all times. Depending on the layout of the enclosure or exhibit, trip hazards may be present and necessary precautions must be taken. Gates should be secure, and provide ease of access for staff, without unnecessary bending, crouching or difficulty opening and closing. Likewise, water and food stations should be positioned and designed efficiently as to not strain keeper backs (ergonomic hazards). Enclosures for water buffalo will generally contain a wallow, for enrichment and to allow thermoregulation of the animal. These wallows could potentially become a slip or drowning hazard, and personal care should be taken at all times, if needed, a two-person rule for entering the enclosure should be put in place. If no wallow is present, adequate shade from trees or man-made structures should be present. Such structures should be kept in good repair and trees are to be pruned, cut or removed when required. If fencing is electrified, this must be taken into account when entering the enclosure so that accidental electrocution does not occur. When working outdoors, sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved clothes should be worn to protect from the sun and harmful UV rays. In regards to biological hazards, there are a number of zoonotic diseases relating to water buffalo. Although many only occur in poorly developed countries, due to lack of education and poor conditions, awareness of these zoonoses is still important and should be noted. (further detail into zoonotic diseases will be covered under the heading ‘Health Requirements’. 4 How to Protect Yourself Wash your hands. The single most effective preventative measure that can be taken is thorough, regular hand washing. Wash hands and arms after handling water buffalo. Never smoke, drink, or eat in the animal areas, or before washing your hands. Wear protective clothing. When working with water buffalo wear appropriate coveralls and foot wear, and other equipment based on the work at hand, and remove them after completing the work. Wear respiratory protection. Dust masks should be worn if you already have allergies and are outside in dusty areas or while attending livestock in their enclosures. Seek Medical Attention Promptly. If you are injured on the job, promptly report the accident to your supervisor, even if it seems relatively minor. Minor cuts and abrasions should be immediately cleansed with antibacterial soap and then protected from exposure to dirt and animal by-products Tell your physician you work with cattle. Whenever you are ill, even if you're not certain that the illness is work-related, always mention to your physician that you work with water buffalo. Many zoonotic diseases have flu-like symptoms and would not normally be suspected. Your physician needs this information to make an accurate diagnosis. (Care and Use of Water Buffalo, 2012) 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................. 9 1.1 ASMP CATEGORY...................................................................................................................................................................... 10 1.2 IUCN CATEGORY ....................................................................................................................................................................... 10 1.3 EA CATEGORY ........................................................................................................................................................................... 10 1.4 NZ AND PNG CATEGORIES AND LEGISLATION .......................................................................................................................... 12 1.5 WILD POPULATION MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................................................ 12 1.6 SPECIES COORDINATOR .............................................................................................................................................................. 12 1.7 STUDBOOK HOLDER ................................................................................................................................................................... 12 2 TAXONOMY ................................................................................................................................................................................ 13 2.1 NOMENCLATURE ........................................................................................................................................................................ 13 2.2 SUBSPECIES ................................................................................................................................................................................ 13 2.3 RECENT SYNONYMS ................................................................................................................................................................... 14 2.4 OTHER COMMON NAMES ........................................................................................................................................................... 14 3 NATURAL HISTORY ................................................................................................................................................................. 15 3.1 MORPHOMETRICS ....................................................................................................................................................................... 16 3.1.1 Mass and Basic Body Measurements ............................................................................................................................... 16 3.1.2 Sexual Dimorphism .......................................................................................................................................................... 17 3.1.3 Distinguishing Features ................................................................................................................................................... 18 3.2 DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT ..................................................................................................................................................... 21 3.3 CONSERVATION STATUS ............................................................................................................................................................ 22 3.4 LONGEVITY ...............................................................................................................................................................................