KENANSVILLE, Fla. — With a name like water buffalo, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that these massive animals have a special relationship with water.

Visitors can get a closer look at water buffalo while exploring Wild Florida Adventure Park’s Drive-Thru Safari Park in Kenansville.

Water buffalo have been closely connected with people for thousands of years, particularly across Asia, where domesticated animals have traditionally been used in agriculture, transportation and food production.

Their large bodies and distinctive horns give them an impressive appearance, but their tendency to spend time in water and mud serves an important purpose.

Wallowing can help water buffalo cool their bodies during hot weather while also providing some relief from biting insects.

That makes them particularly interesting animals to learn about in Florida, where staying cool is something almost everyone can appreciate.

Water buffalo should not be confused with the American bison, which is also sometimes incorrectly called a buffalo. They’re different animals with very different histories — and visitors can encounter both during a trip through Wild Florida’s safari.

The 170-acre Drive-Thru Safari Park features more than 150 exotic and native animals along a four-mile route traveled in the comfort of guests’ own vehicles.

Families can see giraffes, zebras, bison, wildebeest, Watusi cattle and other animals as they explore.

And if seeing an animal that loves the water isn’t enough, visitors can get onto the water themselves.

Wild Florida’s airboat adventures travel through the Headwaters of the Florida Everglades, offering a completely different wildlife experience filled with Florida wetlands, alligators, birds and other native species.

The Gator Park adds even more animals to the day.

From water buffalo to airboats, there are plenty of ways to make a splash at Wild Florida.

Wild Florida Adventure Park is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is closed Sundays. Reservations can be made Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wild Florida is located at 3301 Lake Cypress Road, Kenansville, FL 34739.

For reservations or additional information, call 407-957-3135 or toll-free at 866-532-7167, or email info@wildfl.com.

Guests can also book a Wild Florida airboat adventure online.

Come see the water buffalo, explore the safari and make your next Central Florida outing a little wilder.