species [Lore] Buffalo

[starswirlthebearded]

Buffalo - Nomads of the Plain

 

 

Buffalo are typically nomadic tribes as part of a larger community. Most buffalo tribes do not communicate with their other tribes other than for the occasional trade. Some smaller tribes have settled and become farmers, but for the most part they are nomadic gatherers who give back what they take from the land. Those tribes that are still nomadic usually have traditional paths known as “stampeding grounds,” that they have used for many generations.

 

The structure of the tribe is very simple with a chieftain sitting at the top. The position is often passed down in lineage. The other positions of the tribe are often built upon tradition, there are those that are in charge of history and stories, maintaining camp, and naturally gathering and replanting the food they had gathered after. There are also craft based jobs, such as pottery and headdress makers, as well as the food preparers. The buffalo believe very strongly in the land, and whatever they take they put back. They are also very peaceful, choosing to often discuss their problems if the opportunity presents itself rather than take any other action.

 

But let's talk about the buffalo themselves. like their habits what they are like and their special attributes. Buffalo are in general very stocky and muscular with horns for both males and females, though the males tend to be bigger and have bigger horns. It should be noted that buffalo calves do not have horns but they start to develop when they reach adolescence. But one shouldn’t let their size mislead, they tend to be very agile and very fast, which may surprise most ponyfolk. One could hypothesize that it is due to their natural lifestyle and constant moving about. They also sometimes wear traditional face paints and feathered headdresses (though more often the feathered headdress, with the chieftain wearing usually a more elaborate headdress). Their coats aren’t as extravagant as pony coats either. They are very rough and rugged looking, often being earthy colors, rather than colorful pastels. Their coats also get longer and more shaggy in winter months.

 

Overall the buffalo have a rich and vibrant culture that is heavily tied to the land they live off of. The land provides for them and in turn, they protect the land. To them, family, the tribe and the land are all held in high regard and all three are treated with the utmost respect and care.

~Encyclopedia Equestria