Anoas are described as pygmy buffalo, but also resemble deer in appearance. They are small, stocky animals with short legs. Anoas belong to the Bovidae (cattle) family and are divided into two species; The Mountain Anoa (Bubalus quarlesi) and The Lowland Anoa (Bubalus depressicornis). Both species are found on Sulawesi, although the Mountain Anoa also inhabits the neighbouring island of Buton. Anoa are the smallest wild cattle species in the world; The lowland anoa reaches about 80cm in height and weigh up to 300kg. Despite this, they are the largest endemic mammal species in Wallacea and are therefore an important flagship species for conservation. Both species have straight horns which grow back from their forehead, and can reach up to 15cm in males.

Anoas are extremely rare, and little is known about their behaviour. Lowland Anoas are found in lowland forest and swampy areas. Mountain Anoa inhabit upland montane forest but have also been observed at sea-level. Unlike most cattle species that live in herds, Anoas tend to be solitary or live in pairs. Their diet consists of grasses, fruit, bark and shrubs. They have also been observed drinking sea water; It is likely that this is to obtain minerals in areas where natural springs or licks are absent. Like other wild cattle species, Anoas are known to wallow in mud or shallow water.

If threatened, Anoas can be very aggressive towards humans, especially if they are looking after their young. Females give birth to one calf once a year. A typical Anoa lifespan is between 20 and 30 years.

Lowland Anoa

Threats

Both species are classified as endangered by the IUCN. It has been estimated that there are around 3000 individuals left in the wild. Anoa populations are decreasing, however. Hunting for meat by locals and habitat loss are the main threats to Anoa survival, the former being the most serious threat. Habitat degradation is causing populations to be fragmented as forest is cleared around protected areas. Anoas are threatened with local extinction in small reserves, and populations continue to decline in larger protected areas such as Lore Lindu National Park, primarily due to hunting.

Conservation

Anoas are fully protected under Indonesian Law. Increasing law enforcement regarding hunting as well as promoting awareness of the Anoas unique and threatened existence are important conservation measures. Anoas occur in several protected areas, although illegal hunting and logging is not well managed in these areas.

Captive breeding programmes have also been set up. In 1998, there were 125 Anoas in captivity in Europe, North America and Asia. However, the uncertain taxonomic status of Anoas and uncertain classification of individuals already in captivity have hindered captive breeding programmes. There is also the problem of inbreeding, which lowers genetic diversity.

Despite their endangered status, Anoas have been studied little. More research into their behaviour and ecology is needed to assist conservation efforts. Genetic research is being carried out to determine genetic differences between both species, and to determine populations with the greatest diversity to direct conservation efforts towards.