Want to learn about the facts about the wildebeest migration? Every year between July and October, over 1 million wildebeests, 200,000 gazelles and about 400,000 zebras move from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Many people ask why such large numbers of animals move from one park to another every year.
10 Migration Facts you Should Know
Below are some of the 10 popular wildebeest migration facts that you should know.
1. Why the Wildebeest Migration Happens
The months of July to October are dry months. During this time, the grass in Serengeti National Park dries up. Because of this, the animals move to Masai Mara National Reserve to look for fresh grass and water. This helps them survive the long dry season.
These animals travel very long distances. Some of them move over 800 kilometers during the migration. After the dry season ends, they return to Serengeti during the rainy season to give birth.
2. The Largest Overland Migration
The Great Wildebeest Migration is the largest overland migration in the world. There are over 1.5 million wildebeests, 400,000 zebras and 200,000 gazelles that move between Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve every year.
3. Calving Season in Serengeti
The wildebeests move back to the Serengeti plains during the rainy season to give birth. Over 500,000 calves are born every season. These young ones are able to stand and walk shortly after birth, which helps them keep up with the herd.
4. Long Distance Movement
During the Great Migration, the animals walk long distances across Tanzania and Kenya. This journey helps them find food and water in different seasons. It is a continuous cycle that happens every year.
5. Different Paths but Same Direction
Not all animals follow the same path during the migration. The wildebeests move in different groups and directions, but they all head towards Masai Mara. They do not have clear leaders and often follow paths that seem easier at the time.
6. Feeding Habits of Wildebeest and Zebra
Even though they move together, wildebeests and zebras do not eat the same type of grass. Zebras eat taller grass, while wildebeests prefer shorter grass. This allows them to feed in the same area without competing too much for food.
7. A Natural Movement Pattern
The Great Migration is a natural movement that became more noticeable around the 1960s as weather patterns changed. The animals adapted to these changes and started moving in this cycle every year.
8. The Circle of Life During Migration
Not all animals survive the journey. About 250,000 wildebeests die during the migration. Some are eaten by predators, some drown while crossing rivers, and others die from weakness or injury.
9. Predators Follow the Herds
Where the wildebeest go, predators follow. Serengeti has many predators such as lions that follow the herds during migration. They depend on these animals for food.
10. River Crossings in Masai Mara
River crossings are one of the most dangerous parts of the migration. Crocodiles wait in the Mara River for the animals to cross. They catch and pull their prey into the water.
These crossings are a key part of the Great Wildebeest Migration in Masai Mara National Reserve and attract many visitors each year.
