The differences between a Buffalo and a Bison.

As many know, Mani is referred to as a Buffalo.  However when referencing these types of animals in our Province, a majority seem to use Bison.  Which is correct?

Well as it turns out, Bison is the correct reference although Buffalo has been used for a longer period of time.  As can be found in American Heritage dictionary for under word origin;

buffalo, first recorded for the American mammal in 1635, is older than bison, first recorded in 1774.

The only true "Buffalo" species are the African Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and the Asian Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis).  Whereas in North America the Bison (Bison bison) is a different species.

Turns out this discrepancy can be attributed to French Fur Trappers who according to Wikipedia;

called these massive beasts bœufs, meaning ox or bullock – so both names, "bison" and "buffalo," have a similar meaning.

So where does this leave Mani?  Has he been misidentified?  Will this cause him to question who he is?  As of this writing, Mani is still using the moniker of Buff-hello.  Will this change?  Stay Tuned!!

Some places to see Buffalo/Bison around Manitoba

The Fort Whyte has a Bison Safari that they offer for guests;

At the Assiniboine Park Zoo you can see the Bison herd, which includes a rare white Bison (which apparently happens once every 15 million births).

Riding Mountain National Park has a HUGE enclosure for Bison;

Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature

If you are visiting Winnipeg, or live here for that matter, I'd strongly suggest you take time to check out the Museum of Man and Nature.  It is a 1st class facility.

This image is one of my favorite displays;

Mani is on Twitter

What exactly does a Buffalo have to tweet?  We're not sure, but if you'd be interested in hearing from Mani via twitter, why not follow him?

We welcome pictures of people showing off their Mani's!!!

Here is someone who really, really loves their Herd.

A bit about Mani

Mani was conceived back in the early 2000's.  One of his first big "gigs" was when he was declared the Official Mascot of the 2003 Ford World Curling Championship.

Mani was also made available in stores across this great city, such as the Museum of Man and Nature gift shop as well as Showcase Manitoba in the Winnipeg Airport.

Contact Details

Feel free to add Mani on Facebook and on Twitter.

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