AN American big game hunter was gored to death by a buffalo he was stalking for a trophy kill, after the animal ambushed him in South Africa.

Millionaire ranch trader Asher Watkins, 52, was on safari last Sunday with a professional hunter and a tracker, pursuing a 3,000lb bull in thick bushland.

Without warning, the buffalo – considered Africa’s most dangerous animal – burst from cover at 35mph and fatally struck Watkins, killing him almost instantly.

It’s unclear whether the buffalo was killed or escaped back to its herd.

The hunt, organised by Coenraad Vermaak Safaris, was reportedly worth a staggering $10,000 (£7,500).

Cape buffalo, often dubbed the “Black Death”, are responsible for about 200 deaths annually and kill more game hunters than lions, elephants, rhinos or crocodiles.

Watkins, a keen conservationist, believed hunting was a vital part of preserving wildlife.

His social media features trophies including a mountain lion, numerous deer, wildfowl and even boasts of killing thousands of doves over three days with pals in Argentina.

But during Sunday’s hunt in the 50,000-acre Bambisana concession, a buffalo got wind of the trackers and turned on them.

Though not believed to be wounded at the time, the bull became agitated and launched a surprise attack.

Watkins – raised on Texas farms and taught to shoot from a young age – was caught off guard and gored in a fatal charge.

Hunter Hans Vermaak, speaking for CV Safaris, said: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts we confirm the tragic death of our client and friend Asher Watkins from the USA.

“On Sunday, while on a hunting safari with us in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Asher was fatally injured in a sudden and unprovoked attack by an unwounded buffalo.

“He was tracking it together with one of our professional hunters and one of our trackers. This is a devastating incident and our hearts go out to his loved ones.

“We are doing everything we can to support the family members who are here with us and those back in the United States as they navigate this tragic loss.”

Watkins’ ex-wife Courtney – with whom he shared custody of their teenage daughter Savannah after splitting in 2013 – was notified of his untimely death.

One of the dad’s close friends said: “He spent every spare moment he could with Savannah and shared his life with her.

“Nobody could love a daughter more than he did. She will be broken to lose Asher, who was her best friend as well as her dad.”

His mother Gwen, brother Amon, and stepfather Tony were staying at the luxury lodge nearby when the tragic news was delivered.

Watkins ran the successful Watkins Ranch Group in Texas, selling luxury ranches priced between £1million and £30million.

He was affiliated with global firm Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty and was a member of the Dallas Safari Club.

Friends say he also owned a world-class hunting rifle collection.

Close pal Shannon Wherry wrote online: “On an African safari with his beloved mother, brother and stepdad, Asher came face to face with one of Africa’s legendary buffalo.

“In a moment of fearlessness, as he lived his life, he met the challenge head-on, leaving this world a man of courage, faith, and adventure.

“He loved his precious daughter Savannah more than life itself and leaves her behind, and his ex-wife, who are now facing an unimaginable loss.

“Please continue to lift them in prayer for peace and strength in the days ahead.”

CV Safaris posted on Instagram that they met Watkins and his family at Johannesburg Airport and flew them to the remote Bambisana concession in a private aircraft.

On his first day, Watkins successfully shot a waterbuck.

But on day two, the team encountered a buffalo bull.

The animal became hostile and turned hunter, leading to the fatal incident.

The CV Safaris website offers a stark warning about Cape buffalo: “No species on the planet has a more fearsome reputation than a Cape Buffalo. Responsible for several deaths and many injuries to hunters each year.

“The buffalo is regarded as the most dangerous animal to pursue in Africa. Buffalo hunting is thrilling and exhilarating and at the top of every hunter’s wish list.

“Crafty and belligerent, he seeks refuge in thickets when wounded or when danger approaches. Buffalo are known to charge unprovoked so prepare for the worst.

“Buffalo have earned their reputation and can absorb astounding amounts of lead even when shots are well placed. A charging buffalo comes at an alarming speed. Cool nerves and a steady hand are crucial.”

Cape buffalo can weigh up to 1.5 tons, reach 11ft in length, and stand 5ft 6in tall.

Their horns connect via a thick bone “boss” across the forehead, with tips spanning up to four feet.

They are notoriously aggressive and unpredictable – with only lions and humans as natural predators.

South African police are believed to have opened an inquest into Watkins’ death.