In the wild, water buffalo are found in tropical and subtropical forests as well as wet grasslands. They are considered terrestrial but are heavily dependent on water and spend a majority of time wallowing in rivers or mud holes. Thus, B. bubalis is found in wet habitats ranging from riverine forests and grasslands, to marshes and swamps. These habitats are a mixture of tall grasses, rivers and streams, and a scattering of trees and forests. Such an environment provides B. bubalis with adequate water for drinking and wallowing, abundant food, and dense cover.

In general, water buffalo are found in lower elevations, but in Nepal, swamp buffalo can commonly be found at elevations of 2,800 m. Domesticated animals are widespread, and therefore are found in a wide variety of habitats. The majority of the domesticated water buffalo are found in agricultural communities, but they can also be found in many cities. (Gurung and Singh, 1996; Ligda, 1999b; Macdonald, 2001; Nowak, 1999; Shackleton and Harestad, 2003)

• Habitat Regions

• temperate 

• tropical 

• terrestrial

• Terrestrial Biomes

• savanna or grassland 

• forest

• Aquatic Biomes

• lakes and ponds 

• rivers and streams 

• temporary pools

• Wetlands

• marsh 

• swamp

• Other Habitat Features

• urban 

• suburban 

• agricultural 

• riparian