Bovidae are a diverse group of hoofed mammals. Buffalo, Musk Ox, Bison, Cattle, Sheep, Goats and Antelopes all belong to the Bovidae family. There are over 140 species of bovids spread across different continents. They can be found anywhere from African savannas and North American Grasslands to Arctic tundra and Asian mountains. They play an essential role in the ecosystems they live in.

Bovids vary significantly in size. For example, the Royal Antelope (Neotragus pygmaeus) weighs 2.5 to 3 kg (5.5 to 6.6 pounds). They are smaller than most domestic cats. The largest bovid is the Gaur (Bos gaurus) also known as the Indian bison. It has a head-and-body length of 2.5 to 3 metres (8 to 10 feet) and weighs between 700 to 1,500 kg (1,540 to 3,300 pounds).

Horns are a defining feature of Bovidae. Their horns are permanent (unlike deer antlers that shed and regrow annually). All male and most female bovids have horns. Male bovids have larger horns that they use for protection, dominance displays and territorial battles. Another distinctive feature of the bovids is their even-toed hooves.

Bovidae are herbivores; they feed on grass, leaves and shrubs. Their four-chambered stomachs help them digest fibrous plant material and extract nutrients from the food.

Many bovid species live in herds and can have complex social structures. They can use vocal, tactical and olfactory (scent) communication methods to send messages about territory, predator presence, social status and mating to each other.