Viral fame spares ‘Donald Trump’ buffalo from Eid sacrifice in Bangladesh

A rare albino buffalo in Bangladesh, distinguished by its blond tuft and nicknamed “Donald Trump,” has been granted a reprieve from its scheduled Eidul Azha sacrifice. A last-minute government intervention, prompted by security concerns and a surge of public interest, led to the decision to spare the nearly 700-kg animal.

Authorities stepped in after the buffalo had already been sold for ritual slaughter. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed ordered the animal be spared, the buyer refunded, and the buffalo relocated to the national zoo in Dhaka. A ministry official stated that the decision was made due to security concerns and the unusual level of public interest surrounding the animal.

The buffalo's journey from a routine Eid purchase to a nationwide curiosity began when videos of it went viral. Crowds gathered at the farm, with visitors traveling from afar to see its distinctive blond fringe and calm demeanor. The farm owner mentioned his younger brother named it after the former U.S. president, spotting a resemblance. The animal is described as unusually gentle and requires careful upkeep, including frequent feeding and regular baths. While albino buffaloes are rare in Bangladesh, it was the unusual nickname that ultimately appeared to save its life during the peak Eid livestock season.

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At the last moment, the decision was taken to spare the buffalo from sacrifice due to security concerns and the unusual level of public interest.