Tamaraw – Mindoro Dwarf Buffalo

Philippines are inhabited by more than 200 species of mammals, including the Tamaraw or Mindoro dwarf buffalo. It is a small wild buffalo only found on Mindoro Island in the Philippines and is the only endemic Philippine bovine. Tamaraw is similar to domestic buffalo, but its V-shaped horns, smaller but stocky body frame and reclusive personality sets it apart. It has a typical shoulder height of 39 to 41 inches, body length is 86 inches, while the tail adds a further 24 inches. Reported weights have ranged from 180 to 300 kilogram.

Unlike the closely related water buffalo, Mindoro dwarf buffalo is a solitary mammals. Adults of the species do not occur in herds or smaller packs, and are often encountered alone.

The tamaraw is known to live for about 25 years. Adult female tamaraw gives birth to one offspring after a gestation period around 300 days. There is an interbirth interval of two years, although one female has been sighted with three juveniles. The calf stays for 2–4 years with its mother before becoming independent.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies this species as Critically Endangered. During the most recent annual headcount, the Natural Park estimated there were over 400 tamaraws. Recent analysis suggests the actual number may be closer to 200-250 in Mounts Iglit-Baco Natural Park.

Scientific name: Bubalus mindorensis
Family: Bovidae

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamaraw
https://www.rewild.org/wild-about/tamaraw