The data of animal names in oracle-bone inscriptions are very rich, but also present many problems. Based on a comprehensive collection, arrangement and study of the data of animal names in oracle-bone inscriptions and in classical documents, we examine the buffalo (si 兕) and elephant (xiang 象). First, we confirm the opinion that si refers to one kind of buffalo (Bubalus mephistopheles), not to the rhinoceros. Secondly, we interpret some sentences that contain si and xiang in oracle-bone inscriptions.