Conservation is guided not only by experience in the field, but also by innovation. In September 2025, we began integrating an exciting new tool into our ecological monitoring programme: BUFTEC, a machine-learning software designed to assist in counting, ageing, and sexing buffalo herds with greater accuracy and efficiency.

Strengthening Conservation Through Science

Monitoring Buffalo populations is a critical component of ecological research within the Greater Kruger landscape. Understanding herd size, age structure, and sex ratios allows us to assess population health, breeding dynamics, and long-term sustainability.

BUFTEC was developed to assist observers in summarising total herd counts, as well as age and sex classifications. The system identifies individuals based on the horn boss — the thick bone mass between the horns — which is more pronounced in mature bulls than in cows. By analysing photographic imagery, the software can distinguish between different age and sex classes, supporting more consistent and data-driven assessments.

A Collaborative Effort

True to Klaserie’s pillar of Collaboration, BUFTEC was developed with the assistance of the son of Klaserie landowner Joris Komen, who worked closely with KPNR Management staff to bring this concept to life.

Hundreds of Buffalo herd photographs, carefully analysed by reserve management, were used as training data. This process enabled the software to learn from real-world field conditions and develop reliable classification capabilities. The partnership between conservation practitioners and technological expertise reflects the strength of working together toward a shared purpose.

From Development to Deployment

Following its development, the BUFTEC model was applied to photographs collected during the September 2025 annual aerial survey. Under operational survey conditions, the system demonstrated reliable classification performance — a significant step forward in integrating artificial intelligence into ecological monitoring.

Since September 2025, BUFTEC has supported our ongoing research efforts, strengthening the scientific foundation that informs conservation decisions across the reserve.

Innovation in Service of the Wild

At Klaserie, Conservation is rooted in long-term ecological understanding. Tools like BUFTEC enhance our ability to monitor wildlife populations with precision, supporting responsible stewardship of this landscape.

The project also reflects our pillar of Community, having been developed from within the Klaserie family itself. When local knowledge, scientific commitment, and technological innovation intersect, meaningful progress becomes possible.

Above all, BUFTEC reinforces our commitment to Connection — connecting data to decision-making, innovation to conservation, and people to the protection of this extraordinary wilderness.

Through collaboration and forward-thinking solutions, the Klaserie continues to safeguard the wild for generations to come.