The buffalo that killed an American big game hunter was shot dead just seconds after goring the man to death.

Multi-millionaire Asher Watkins, 59, was out on safari with a professional hunter and an animal tracker on the trail of the bull last Sunday when the beast charged at him and killed him instantly with his horns.

The professional hunter guiding Watkins through the bush killed the buffalo with a single shot just seconds after the tragic incident.

The news of the of the buffalo's death was greeted with dismay and sadness as thousands commented online that they prayed it had escaped and run to safety.

Bearded big game hunter Watkins dressed in camouflage lay dying close by.