The awe-inspiring spectacle known as the Great Wildebeest Migration is a natural phenomenon that sees immense herds of wildebeest journeying through the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania and Kenya. These magnificent creatures, along with sizeable groups of zebras and gazelles, embark on this epic voyage in pursuit of sustenance and hydration.
Commonly referred to as the white-bearded gnu, the wildebeest is an impressive antelope characterised by its wide, flattened snout, cow-like horns, sturdy neck, and prominent shoulders. Notably, male wildebeests sport more robust and elongated horns compared to their female counterparts. As a quintessential plains antelope found across the acacia-speckled savannas of Eastern and Southern Africa, it possesses a broad muzzle tailored for grazing on nutrient-rich short grasses. Its physical build is perfectly suited for traversing extensive distances while seeking lush pastures.
Wildebeests are known to graze alongside zebras in mixed herds—a strategy that enhances their vigilance against lurking predators. Moreover, they remain attuned to alarm calls from other animals like baboons, further sharpening their awareness in these dynamic ecosystems.
WHY DO WILDEBEESTS MIGRATE?
In the heart of Kenya and Tanzania, the majestic blue wildebeest embark on their epic journey each year, showcasing a phenomenon intricately woven into the natural rhythms of rainfall and grass growth. This awe-inspiring migration is not governed by a strict calendar; rather, it adapts with remarkable flexibility to the whims of nature, sometimes shifting by months from one year to another. As the wet season draws to a close in May or June in East Africa, these resilient creatures venture towards new horizons in search of scarce surface water sources. Months later, as rain showers breathe life back into the land, they instinctively return to their familiar wet-season territories.
The decision-making process during this migration is influenced by several environmental factors such as food abundance and available water. The presence of predators adds an element of danger while phosphorus levels in grasses play a pivotal role—especially for lactating females who require this essential nutrient for survival. During times when rains grace the plains once more, wildebeests are particularly discerning about selecting grazing grounds rich in phosphorus content.
This breathtaking dance between wildlife and wilderness underscores an intricate harmony that has evolved over millennia—a testament to nature’s grand design where every creature plays its part with unparalleled precision.
NON MIGRATING WILDEBEEST
While not all wildebeest partake in the epic journey of migration, there is an intriguing diversity among their populations. The black wildebeest tend to be homebodies, with herds typically roaming within a stable territory of about 1 square kilometre. Conversely, the blue wildebeest present a fascinating duality in behaviour – some are permanent residents while others embrace the nomadic lifestyle. In Ngorongoro, Tanzania, most individuals settle down with males establishing enduring territories year-round. However, when we shift focus to the Serengeti and Tarangire ecosystems, also located in Tanzania, these majestic creatures predominantly embark on vast migrations; still, certain groups prefer to stay put throughout. Over at the Masai Mara game reserve in Kenya lies another stationary group of blue wildebeest. An interesting phenomenon occurs when Tanzanian migrators cross into Kenya; they coexist with their Kenyan counterparts without merging into one amalgamated herd. Once it’s time for their return passage back into Tanzanian soil, those resident Kenyans bid farewell as they maintain their presence steadfastly along familiar grounds.
THE MIGRATION
Some times referred to as the Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth or the eighth wonder of the World. But no matter how it is referred to, the annual migration of the wildebeest is one of the most awe-inspiring sights you will ever see.
Around the end of June about 2 million wildebeest accompanied by many zebras and gazelles, will begin their annual migration from the short-grass plains of the Serengeti to the fresh green pastures of the Masai Mara national reserve and its surrounding regions in Kenya. In Mara, they roam for months before heading south into the Serengeti again. While doing so doing, they create one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Moving in groups the wildebeest thunder across the plateau, drawn by the scent of fresh grass. Arriving at the steep banks of the Mara river, they hurl themselves into its churning waters, and many fall prey to the open jaws of the waiting crocodiles.
Towards the end of October, the herds begin crossing back into Tanzania. The actual timing of the migration is dictated by the weather and and can vary slightly.
Facing multiple dangers such as land predators and crocodiles, the wildebeest complete an 800 km clock wise round trip during the migration.
THE EPIC WILDEBEEST MIGRATION
Often hailed as the Greatest Wildlife Show on Earth or even the Eighth Wonder of the World, this breathtaking spectacle will leave you utterly captivated. The annual migration of the wildebeest is a mesmerising natural phenomenon that promises to astound and inspire.
Every year, towards late June, an incredible procession begins as approximately 2 million wildebeests, flanked by accompanying zebras and gazelles, embark on their remarkable journey. They traverse from the short-grass plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti to seek out the lush green expanses of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and its adjacent areas. Here in Mara, they graze contentedly for months before embarking southward back into Serengeti territory — crafting one of nature’s most extraordinary displays along their path.
In cohesive herds, waves of wildebeest surge across expansive plateaus guided by tantalising scents of fresh pasture. When faced with the formidable banks of the mighty Mara River, these resilient creatures bravely plunge into churning waters where danger lurks beneath; ever-watchful crocodiles lie in wait for an unsuspecting meal.
As October draws to a close, these determined travellers commence their return journey southwards into Tanzania’s welcoming embrace once more. Governed by unpredictable weather patterns dictating precise timing each year – though typically following subtle seasonal cues – this epic migration completes a full circle spanning roughly 800 kilometres while overcoming relentless threats posed by land predators and river dwellers alike during this clockwise odyssey through wild terrain.
Witnessing such raw beauty up close is truly humbling—a testament to perseverance within nature’s grand design awaiting those who venture forth with curiosity fuelled wanderlust!