Feral, water buffalo (bubalus bubalis). The buffalo are not native to Hong Kong. These are the descendants of animals that were imported in the early 20th century to plough rice fields. When the farmers left the fields for better paying jobs the animals were left to fend for themselves.

One of the few remaining unspoiled areas of the Pui O wetlands, Lantau island, Hong Kong

Jean Leung Siu-wah, known locally as the buffalo mother, or buffalo whisperer has been looking after the welfare of the animals since 2008.

Female water buffalo (bubalus bubalis) calf.

Water buffalo (bubalus bubalis) cooling down in the river near Ham Tin.

Dominant male water buffalo (bubalus bubalis) wallowing in mud.

Jean Leung Siu-wah, known locally as the buffalo mother, or buffalo whisperer seen here with the buffalo named Ngau Ngau.

Cooling down in the river near Ham Tin.

Feral, water buffalo (bubalus bubalis) wallowing in mud pools with crested myna birds (Acridotheres cristatellus). The birds clean ticks and other insects that the buffaloes churn up from the mud.