Lowland Anoa
Habitat and Distribution: Exclusively found in the northern part of the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. The lowland anoa prefers undisturbed lowland forested areas and swamps. They will spend time under the shade of trees and in swampy areas to stay cool during hot days.Size: 4–5 feet long 3–5 feet tall; 200–500 pounds
Wild Diet: Grasses, ferns, palm, ginger, fallen fruit, aquatic plants, and leaves
Predators: Humans; young anoa are preyed upon by pythons and civets
Lifespan: 15–20 years in the wild; 20–30 years in zoos
Reproduction: Female anoa reach maturity at two years and males at three years old. There is no known breeding season. Gestation is 275–315 days. Females give birth to one calf, although twins have been born in zoos.Behavior: The lowland anoa spends most of its time alone (unlike most wild cattle) but is sometimes found in pairs or very small groups. They are most active during the early morning and early evening but they may also be very active at night. They often wallow in mud or water and are excellent swimmers.
Conservation
Status: Endangered
Despite the fact that anoa are protected, local people still hunt them illegally in unprotected forests and in conservation areas. The huge decline in the anoa population is a direct result of an increase in the human population. As humans settle new areas they often clear forested areas and drain marshlands for agriculture, leaving less habitat for the anoa.
Despite the fact that anoa are protected, local people still hunt them illegally in unprotected forests and in conservation areas. The huge decline in the anoa population is a direct result of an increase in the human population. As humans settle new areas they often clear forested areas and drain marshlands for agriculture, leaving less habitat for the anoa.
Interesting Facts
Anoa are the smallest of the wild cattle species. Anoa use their sharp horns for protection, and are very good at crashing through forest undergrowth while holding their horns close to their backs to avoid becoming entangled. The lowland anoa help control forest undergrowth by feeding on grasses and plants.