What triggers the great migration? The Great Migration is one of the most well-known wildlife movements in East Africa. Every year, over a million wildebeests, about 200,000 gazelles, and around 400,000 zebras move across long distances between Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve. Many people ask what triggers the Great Migration and why such a large number of animals move from one place to another.
The main reason that triggers the Great Migration is the search for food and water. These animals depend on fresh grass to survive. When the dry season starts in the Serengeti National Park, the grass becomes dry and less available. This forces the animals to move in search of better feeding areas.
During the dry months from July to October, the herds move toward the Masai Mara National Reserve. This area receives more rain during this time, which helps grass continue to grow. The animals follow these green areas to find enough food and water. This movement helps them survive the long dry season.
The animals travel more than 1500 kilometers during this journey. It is not a simple movement but a continuous search for better conditions. Along the way, they face many challenges such as river crossings, predators, and long distances. Even with these risks, they continue moving because their survival depends on it.
When the rainy season begins, the conditions change again. Rain falls in the Serengeti, and fresh grass starts to grow. This triggers the animals to return south to the Serengeti National Park. The return is important because this is where they give birth. The short grass plains provide a good environment for calves.
In simple terms, what triggers the Great Migration is the need to find food, water, and safe areas for breeding. It is a natural cycle that happens every year and keeps repeating as the seasons change.
