Wildebeest Migration - Masai Mara National Reserve Kenya

I usually find mid-June to early July to be the true start of the migration season in the Kenyan part of the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. Before June, the lush green vegetation, rejuvenated by the long rains, remains largely untouched, a haven for giraffes leisurely feeding on acacia leaves and elephants making their slow journeys across the plains.

The savannah is calm, with only the occasional topi perched on a termite mound breaking the stillness. But come June, everything changes. The serene landscape is suddenly alive with movement, sound, and life as over a million wildebeest, 200,000 Burchell’s zebras, and countless Thomson’s gazelles trample their way into the Masai Mara.

The arrival of the migration feels like the beating heart of the Mara coming back to life. I’ve often stood at Sand River in June, watching the first herds arrive. At first, they’re just a few hundred wildebeest, emerging like shadows on the horizon, raising clouds of dust as they surge down to drink. Within days, their numbers swell, and the plains transform into a pulsating mass of life. By mid-July, the migration is in full swing, spreading across the savannah like a living tide. This isn’t just a wildlife event—it’s a phenomenon that reshapes the ecosystem.

The Migration’s Transformative Power

The migration does more than bring movement to the Mara; it transforms every aspect of life here. The tall red oat grass that had swayed gently under the June winds is flattened under the relentless trampling of hooves. Lions, who had been lazing in the shade of acacia trees, suddenly spring into action, patrolling the herds and picking off stragglers. Cheetahs take advantage of the open plains, their speed making short work of the smaller Thomson’s gazelles. Even hyenas, often seen scavenging, become bold hunters during this season of abundance.

But the spectacle isn’t just about the predators or the famous Mara River crossings. It’s the sheer volume of life that fills every corner of the reserve. Watching 1.2 million wildebeest move in columns across the hills and valleys is an experience that defies description. It’s not chaotic—it’s purposeful, as if every wildebeest knows its place in the grand design of nature.

The Drama of the Mara River Crossings

The river crossings are what many visitors come to see, and for good reason. By late July, the herds reach the Mara River, one of the most perilous points in their journey. Standing by the riverbank, I’ve witnessed the tension that builds as the herds approach. Wildebeest mill around, hesitant to make the plunge, their instincts warning them of the dangers below. Then, a bold few leap into the water, and the rest follow in a thundering surge. Crocodiles lie in wait, taking down the unlucky, while others struggle against the strong currents.

The crossings are chaotic, brutal, and mesmerizing all at once. But for me, they’re just one chapter in the migration’s larger story. The real marvel is how this annual journey sustains the entire Mara ecosystem.

Month-to-Month Movement of Wildebeest in Kenya’s Masai Mara

The annual movement of wildebeest in Kenya’s Masai Mara is a vital part of the Great Migration, one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena. While the larger migration spans the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem, the months spent in Kenya’s Masai Mara (typically from July to October) are characterized by dynamic movement, dramatic river crossings, and ecological transformation. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their movement month by month.

June: The First Arrivals

Overview: By late June, the first herds of wildebeest begin arriving in the Masai Mara through the Sand River corridor. These early arrivals typically include smaller groups, often accompanied by zebras.
Behavior: The wildebeest settle briefly to graze on the fresh grasses left by the long rains. They explore the southern regions of the reserve, preparing for larger herds to follow.
Key Areas:
- Sand River
- Areas near Lookout Hill
Predators: Lions and cheetahs, aware of the migration’s onset, start targeting the smaller, more vulnerable groups.

July: The Main Migration Arrives

Overview: By mid-July, the Masai Mara is teeming with wildebeest as hundreds of thousands cross into Kenya from the Serengeti. The herds begin to fan out across the reserve, covering vast areas.
Behavior:
- The herds concentrate around the southern and central regions of the Masai Mara.
- Grazing intensifies, and competition for resources begins as the density of animals increases.
Key Areas:
- Southern Mara Triangle
- Areas around Sand River and Lookout Hill
Notable Events:
- The first groups approach the Mara River, with small-scale crossings beginning by the end of the month.
Predators: Predator activity increases, with lions, hyenas, and cheetahs benefiting from the abundance of prey.

August: River Crossings in Full Swing

Overview: August is the peak migration period in the Masai Mara. The herds move deeper into the reserve, and the dramatic Mara River crossings become a focal point.
Behavior:
- Large herds gather along the banks of the Mara River, hesitating before crossing.
- The crossings are chaotic, with wildebeest navigating strong currents and avoiding crocodiles.
- Once across, they disperse into the central and northern Mara.
Key Areas:
- Mara River crossings at Serena, Mara Bridge, and Talek River
- Plains around Rhino Ridge and Paradise Plains
Predators: Nile crocodiles take center stage at the crossings, while lions and cheetahs continue hunting the herds once they’re on the move.

September: Herds Spread Across the Reserve

Overview: By September, the migration is well-established throughout the Masai Mara. The herds are spread across the reserve, grazing heavily on the grasslands.
Behavior:
- The wildebeest replenish themselves on the Mara’s rich grasses.
- Constant movement defines their behavior, as herds shift locations in response to food availability and predator activity.
Key Areas:
- Central and northern regions of the Masai Mara
- Plains near Musiara Marsh and Rhino Ridge
Predators:
- Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas thrive during this period.
- Scavengers like vultures and jackals capitalize on the remains of predator kills.
Tourist Highlights: This is one of the best months for game drives and hot-air balloon safaris, as the herds are widely distributed and easy to spot.

October: The Departure Begins

Overview: By mid to late October, the wildebeest begin their journey back to the Serengeti as the short rains start falling in Tanzania.
Behavior:
- The herds regroup, forming large columns as they move southward.
- Some smaller groups linger in the Mara Triangle, but the majority cross back into the Serengeti.
Key Areas:
- Southern regions of the Mara near the Sand River and Lookout Hill
- Pathways leading to Serengeti migration corridors
Predators:
- Predator activity remains high as the herds move, targeting stragglers and the weak.
Notable Events:
- The Mara returns to a quieter state as the grasses begin to recover.

The Movements of Wildebeest in Tanzania’s Serengeti: Month-by-Month Guide

The wildebeest migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti is an intricate journey of survival and adaptation, spanning hundreds of kilometers annually. This natural phenomenon is dictated by rainfall patterns, the availability of grazing, and the instinctive drive to find fresh resources. While the Masai Mara hosts the herds from June to October, the remaining months of the year are spent within Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Here’s a detailed account of the movements and activities of wildebeest in the Serengeti from November through May.

November: Return to the Serengeti

Overview: After the short rains begin in Tanzania, the herds leave Kenya’s Masai Mara and cross back into the Serengeti, retracing their path southward.
Behavior:
- The wildebeest move quickly, covering large distances as they return to the northern Serengeti.
- Smaller groups begin dispersing across the plains, feeding on the rejuvenated grasslands.
Key Areas:
- Northern Serengeti: Areas around Lamai Wedge and Lobo Valley serve as staging points.
- Eastern Serengeti plains begin to attract smaller herds as fresh grass sprouts.
Predators:
- Lions and cheetahs continue targeting the herds, while scavengers like hyenas and vultures thrive on the remnants.
Significance: This is a transitional phase as the herds make their way toward the southern plains.

December: Moving into the Southern Serengeti

Overview: By December, the herds start arriving in the nutrient-rich southern Serengeti plains, where the rains have revitalized the grasslands.
Behavior:
- Wildebeest spread out across the vast open plains, feeding and preparing for the calving season.
- Zebras and Thomson’s gazelles accompany the wildebeest, creating mixed herds.
Key Areas:
- Ndutu region in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
- Southern plains of the Serengeti, stretching toward Olduvai Gorge.
Predators:
- Predators like lions and hyenas concentrate around the southern plains, anticipating the arrival of calves.
Notable Events: The ecosystem begins to buzz with activity as the wildebeest settle in their calving grounds.

January: Calving Grounds

Overview: January marks the beginning of the calving season, with the wildebeest herds scattered across the southern Serengeti plains.
Behavior:
- Thousands of calves are born daily, with the majority of births occurring within a three-week window.
- Mothers stay close to their newborns, creating tight-knit family groups.
Key Areas:
- Ndutu plains, particularly around Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek.
- Grasslands near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Predators:
- Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are highly active, preying on the vulnerable young.
Ecological Significance:
- The synchronized birthing floods the ecosystem with prey, ensuring predator populations are well-fed and balanced.

February: Peak Calving Season

Overview: February is the height of the calving season, with nearly half a million calves born within a few weeks.
Behavior:
- Newborn calves learn to stand and run within minutes, an essential adaptation for survival.
- The herds remain in the southern Serengeti, grazing on the lush grasses.
Key Areas:
- Southern Serengeti plains and Ndutu region remain the focal points.
Predators:
- Predator activity peaks as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas take full advantage of the abundance of calves.
Significance:
- This is a critical period for the survival of the wildebeest population, ensuring that enough calves make it to adulthood.

March: Grazing and Gradual Movement

Overview: As the rains continue, the herds remain in the southern and eastern Serengeti, feeding on the nutrient-rich grasses.
Behavior:
- The wildebeest begin to form larger herds, gradually moving toward the central Serengeti.
- Calves grow stronger, better equipped to handle the journey ahead.
Key Areas:
- Ndutu plains and areas near Gol Kopjes in the eastern Serengeti.
- The central Serengeti begins to attract grazing herds.
Predators:
- Predators remain active, but predation rates decrease as the calves grow stronger.

April: Transition to the Central Serengeti

Overview: April marks the beginning of the herds’ northward journey as the grasslands of the southern Serengeti become overgrazed.
Behavior:
- The wildebeest gather in larger numbers, creating dramatic columns of migrating animals.
- The migration becomes more organized as they move toward the Seronera region.
Key Areas:
- Central Serengeti, including the Seronera Valley and Moru Kopjes.
- Some herds move toward the Grumeti Reserve.
Predators:
- Predators follow the herds northward, capitalizing on any weak or straggling individuals.

May: The Western Corridor

Overview: By May, the herds enter the Serengeti’s western corridor, following the Mbalageti River toward the Grumeti River.
Behavior:
- The herds spread out, feeding heavily in preparation for the dry season.
- They begin to congregate near the Grumeti River for their first major water crossing.
Key Areas:
- Western Serengeti, including the Grumeti Reserve and Mbalageti Valley.
Predators:
- Nile crocodiles lie in wait at the Grumeti River, anticipating the first crossings.
Significance:
- This marks the final stage before the herds push northward toward the Masai Mara.

Year-Round Migration Summary Table: Wildebeest in the Serengeti-Masai Mara Ecosystem

This table summarizes the month-to-month movements of the wildebeest migration, including key activities, locations, ecological significance, and predator dynamics.

Month	Key Activities	Primary Locations	Ecological Significance	Predator Dynamics
January	Calving season begins; thousands of calves are born daily.	Southern Serengeti, Ndutu Plains, Ngorongoro Conservation Area	Nutrient cycling through grazing and fertilization; synchronized births provide predator-prey balance.	High predator activity targeting vulnerable newborns; lions, hyenas, and cheetahs dominate.
February	Peak calving season; tight-knit herds form around calves.	Southern Serengeti, Ndutu Plains	Flooding the ecosystem with prey supports predator populations.	Predators exploit abundance of young wildebeest; scavengers thrive on leftovers.
March	Grazing intensifies; herds begin forming larger groups.	Southern and Eastern Serengeti	Grassland rejuvenation through grazing; stronger calves prepare for migration.	Predation rates decline as calves grow stronger; predators follow herds.
April	Gradual northward movement begins toward central Serengeti.	Central Serengeti, Seronera Valley, Gol Kopjes	Migration spreads nutrient distribution across regions.	Predators track moving herds, targeting weak individuals.
May	Herds converge in the western corridor; preparation for river crossings.	Western Serengeti, Grumeti Reserve	Nutrient recycling; supports aquatic ecosystems at river crossings.	Nile crocodiles await crossings; large predators like lions maintain pursuit.
June	Early river crossings; smaller groups move north.	Grumeti River, Western Corridor	Supports aquatic ecosystems and sustains predators.	Crocodiles become key predators during crossings; scavengers clean up remains.
July	Large herds enter Masai Mara; dramatic Mara River crossings begin.	Mara River, Southern Masai Mara	Grassland grazing rejuvenates ecosystems; migration drives predator-prey dynamics.	Crocodiles dominate river crossings; lions and cheetahs increase activity.
August	Peak migration activity in Masai Mara; herds spread widely.	Masai Mara Reserve, Paradise Plains, Rhino Ridge	High grazing intensity enriches soils; sustains entire predator chain.	All major predators active; scavengers like vultures thrive on abundant carcasses.
September	Herds graze heavily; movement slows as resources are plentiful.	Central and Northern Masai Mara	Grassland health improved by grazing; migration supports smaller herbivores.	Predation rates remain high, especially for stragglers and vulnerable individuals.
October	Herds begin southward journey back to Serengeti.	Southern Masai Mara, Sand River	Redistribution of nutrients begins as herds move.	Predators follow herds south, capitalizing on stragglers.
November	Rapid southward migration as short rains start in Serengeti.	Northern Serengeti, Lamai Wedge, Lobo Valley	Restores grazing balance in the Masai Mara and Serengeti.	Opportunistic predators target moving herds.
December	Herds settle in southern Serengeti for calving preparation.	Southern Serengeti, Ndutu Plains	Prepares ecosystem for calving season; promotes new grass growth.	Predators shift focus to pregnant females and smaller groups.

This table captures the cyclical nature of the wildebeest migration and its profound impact on the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem. Each month tells a story of survival, adaptation, and the delicate balance of nature that sustains millions of animals and their habitats.

Wildebeest Migration Distance

The Great Migration of wildebeest across the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem is a vast, circular journey covering an estimated 800 to 1,000 kilometers (500 to 620 miles) annually. This incredible distance is driven by the search for fresh grazing lands and water, dictated by seasonal rainfall patterns.

Breakdown of the Distance

Serengeti Southern Plains to Masai Mara (South to North)
- Route: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu, Ngorongoro) → Central Serengeti (Seronera) → Western Corridor (Grumeti) → Northern Serengeti → Masai Mara (Kenya).
- Distance: Approximately 400–500 km (250–310 miles).
Masai Mara Back to Serengeti (North to South)
- Route: Masai Mara → Northern Serengeti → Central Serengeti → Southern Serengeti (calving grounds).
- Distance: Approximately 400–500 km (250–310 miles).

The Great Migration Map and Routes:

The Great Migration spans the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem, a vast, interconnected savannah that stretches across northern Tanzania and southern Kenya. The migration forms a near-continuous cycle, with wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traversing distinct areas throughout the year. The movement is driven by rainfall and the availability of grazing land, creating one of nature’s most predictable yet dynamic phenomena.

Key Components of the Migration Map

Starting Point: Southern Serengeti Plains
- Location: Ndutu region, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the southern Serengeti.
- Season: December to March (calving season).
- Ecological Role: These fertile plains provide nutrient-rich grass essential for calving and sustaining young wildebeest.
- Route Description: The migration begins here, with herds dispersing widely over the southern plains.
Movement Northward: Central and Eastern Serengeti
- Location: Seronera Valley, Gol Kopjes, and Moru Kopjes.
- Season: April to May.
- Ecological Role: Central Serengeti serves as a transitional grazing zone as the wildebeest form larger herds.
- Route Description: The herds migrate northwest, driven by diminishing grazing and water in the south.
The Western Corridor
- Location: Mbalageti Valley, Grumeti River, and surrounding areas.
- Season: May to June.
- Ecological Role: The Grumeti River presents the first significant challenge, with crocodiles lying in wait.
- Route Description: Wildebeest funnel into this corridor, navigating narrow paths and river crossings.
Northern Serengeti: Crossing into Masai Mara
- Location: Lamai Wedge and Kogatende in northern Serengeti, Masai Mara in Kenya.
- Season: July to October.
- Ecological Role: The Mara River becomes the most iconic crossing point. The herds spread widely across the fertile Masai Mara grasslands.
- Route Description: The migration crosses the Mara River at various points, including Serena Camp and Talek River. It disperses across the Masai Mara plains during its peak.
Return Southward
- Location: From Masai Mara through the northern Serengeti to the southern plains.
- Season: October to November.
- Ecological Role: The short rains signal the retreat to southern grazing grounds for calving.
- Route Description: Wildebeest move quickly south, retracing their path.

Notable Migration Hotspots in Masai Mara

Sand River: Entry point for the migration into Kenya; the first herds cross here in late June.
Mara River: The most dramatic part of the migration, with iconic river crossings that attract predators and tourists alike.
Paradise Plains: A key grazing area for the herds after river crossings.
Rhino Ridge: A predator hotspot during the migration’s peak.
Musiara Marsh: Known for its high predator activity and abundant wildlife during the migration.

The Ecosystem’s Response

As the herds spread across the reserve, the entire ecosystem comes alive. The grazing wildebeest rejuvenate the grasslands, preventing overgrowth and encouraging new shoots that benefit smaller herbivores like gazelles and warthogs. Their dung and urine enrich the soil, fostering nutrient cycling that supports plant and insect life. Predators, from the mighty lions to the opportunistic jackals, rely on the migration for sustenance, while scavengers like vultures and hyenas thrive on the leftovers.

Even the rivers feel the impact. The Mara River, swollen with the rains and teeming with crocodiles, becomes the center of the action. As wildebeest fall to the predators or exhaustion, their remains feed aquatic life, ensuring the river’s ecosystem remains healthy and vibrant.

The History Behind the Migration

The migration as we know it today is a relatively recent phenomenon. Before the 1970s, periodic outbreaks of rinderpest kept the wildebeest population in check, hovering around 250,000. But after a widespread cattle immunization campaign inadvertently eradicated the disease among wildebeest and buffalo, their numbers surged. Coupled with favorable dry-season rainfall, the population exploded, spilling over into the Masai Mara. This resurgence has since created one of the world’s most iconic wildlife spectacles.

Interestingly, while the migratory population of wildebeest has flourished, the Mara’s resident wildebeest have seen a steady decline. Once, these herds migrated seasonally from the Loita Plains to the Mara, but human activities, particularly agriculture, have disrupted their routes. Today, many of the resident herds remain confined to conservancies outside the reserve, highlighting the challenges of balancing human development with wildlife conservation.

The Challenges of the Future

The migration’s survival isn’t guaranteed. Human encroachment threatens to fragment critical corridors, with roads, fences, and farmland disrupting traditional routes. Climate change adds another layer of uncertainty, altering rainfall patterns and potentially delaying or shifting the herds’ movements. The decline of resident herds is a cautionary tale of what could happen if these challenges aren’t addressed.

Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of community conservancies and the protection of migratory corridors, are crucial. These initiatives not only safeguard the migration but also benefit local communities by promoting sustainable tourism.

Common FAQs About the Wildebeest Migration

1. Can I predict the exact dates of the migration?

The migration follows a general pattern tied to seasonal rainfall, but exact dates vary yearly based on weather conditions. For example:

River crossings at the Mara River typically occur from late July to early October, but the timing may shift depending on rainfall and grass availability. Planning flexibility is key to witnessing specific events like river crossings.

2. How do wildebeest navigate during the migration?

Wildebeest rely on a combination of instinct, environmental cues, and herd behavior:

They sense rainfall and fresh grass growth over long distances.
Herd dynamics ensure that even inexperienced individuals follow more seasoned leaders. This instinctive navigation ensures the herds stay on track year after year.

3. How far can a wildebeest travel in a single day?

Wildebeest can cover up to 30–50 kilometers (18–30 miles) in a single day during peak migration periods. This endurance helps them cross vast landscapes quickly, especially when moving between grazing grounds or away from predators.

4. Is the migration affected by climate change?

Yes, climate change has a growing impact on the migration:

Unpredictable Rainfall: Altered rain patterns can delay or disrupt migration routes.
Habitat Changes: Drier conditions may reduce grazing availability, increasing competition and stress on the herds. Conservation efforts aim to address these challenges by protecting habitats and migratory corridors.

5. Why do zebras and gazelles migrate with the wildebeest?

Zebras and gazelles migrate with wildebeest as part of a mutually beneficial relationship:

Grazing Dynamics: Zebras eat taller grasses, making it easier for wildebeest to feed on shorter grasses.
Safety in Numbers: Large herds reduce individual predation risk by overwhelming predators. This interspecies cooperation supports the survival of all grazing animals in the ecosystem.

6. Are there any nocturnal aspects of the migration?

Yes, wildebeest often move and graze at night, especially under bright moonlight. This behavior:

Reduces heat stress during the hot savannah days.
Offers some protection from predators, although nocturnal hunters like lions and hyenas are active.

7. What are the main threats to the migration today?

The migration faces several modern threats:

Human Encroachment: Fences, roads, and agricultural expansion block traditional routes.
Poaching: Though reduced, illegal hunting still impacts herd numbers.
Predator Pressure: Increased predator densities in some areas can impact migration dynamics. Conservation initiatives, including protected areas and community-based tourism, mitigate these threats.

8. Can the migration be seen from the air?

Yes, aerial views provide a spectacular perspective of the migration:

Hot-Air Balloons: Popular in the Masai Mara for sunrise flights over the herds.
Small Planes: Scenic flights in the Serengeti showcase the vast scale of the herds. This option offers unique opportunities for photography and appreciating the migration’s scale.

9. How does the migration impact local Maasai communities?

The migration significantly benefits the local Maasai communities:

Tourism Revenue: Supports schools, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Cultural Preservation: Engages visitors in Maasai traditions, encouraging sustainable coexistence. Community-led conservancies have become vital in maintaining the balance between wildlife and human activity.

10. Are there any lesser-known migration-related species?

Beyond wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, several other species participate indirectly:

Eland: Africa’s largest antelope joins parts of the migration, feeding on varied vegetation.
Birds: Migratory birds like storks and kestrels follow the herds, preying on insects disturbed by the grazing animals.

11. How long does a wildebeest live, and how does it affect the migration?

Wildebeest have an average lifespan of 15–20 years, but only about 50% survive their first year due to predation and environmental challenges. High birth rates during the calving season ensure population sustainability despite these pressures.

12. What makes wildebeest uniquely suited for migration?

Wildebeest possess several adaptations for long-distance travel:

Efficient Digestive Systems: Enable them to extract maximum nutrients from grasses.
Durable Hooves: Built to withstand rocky terrain and riverbeds.
Social Herding Instincts: Minimize predation risks and enhance navigation during migration.

More FAQs

13. How many wildebeest typically survive the migration?

While over 1.2 million wildebeest participate in the migration annually, it’s estimated that 250,000–300,000 die during the journey. Deaths are caused by:

Predation from lions, crocodiles, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Drowning during river crossings.
Exhaustion, disease, and starvation. Despite this, high birth rates in calving season ensure population replenishment.

14. How do predators affect migration patterns?

Predators play a significant role in shaping migration dynamics:

Lions and Hyenas: Concentrate around dense herds, especially near rivers and calving areas.
Crocodiles: Dictate crossing behaviors, often creating bottlenecks at riverbanks.
Cheetahs and Leopards: Target smaller groups or stragglers. Predation maintains the ecosystem’s balance by controlling population size and weeding out weaker individuals.

15. Do all wildebeest migrate, or are some non-migratory?

Not all wildebeest participate in the migration. In the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem:

Migratory Wildebeest: Make the epic journey in search of fresh grazing lands.
Resident Wildebeest: Live year-round in specific regions, such as the Loita Plains near the Masai Mara. Human activities, like agriculture, have fragmented traditional migration routes, leading to declines in some resident populations.

16. What is the migration’s impact on rivers and water ecosystems?

The migration heavily influences river ecosystems:

Nutrient Input: Dead wildebeest during crossings enrich the rivers with organic matter, sustaining aquatic life.
Crocodile Populations: The migration supports a dense crocodile population, especially in the Mara and Grumeti Rivers.
Erosion and Sediment Movement: Herd movements and crossings reshape riverbanks and distribute sediments, altering river dynamics.

17. How does migration benefit scavengers?

The migration sustains scavenger populations, including:

Vultures: Rely on carcasses left by predators or drowned wildebeest at river crossings.
Hyenas and Jackals: Thrive on remains and weakened individuals. Without the migration, scavenger populations would dwindle, leading to ecological imbalances.

18. What happens to wildebeest that don’t cross the Mara River?

Not all wildebeest make the perilous Mara River crossings. Some:

Stay in northern Serengeti, grazing along the Lamai Wedge.
Use smaller crossings or alternative paths where the river is shallow or dry. These strategies reduce risks but often result in limited grazing options.

19. Are there migration events outside the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem?

While the Serengeti-Masai Mara migration is the most famous, smaller migrations occur in other parts of Africa:

Kalahari Desert: Wildebeest in Botswana migrate in search of water during dry seasons.
Zambia’s Liuwa Plain: Hosts a smaller wildebeest migration, unique for its wetland ecosystems.

20. How has tourism impacted the migration?

Tourism provides crucial funding for conservation efforts but also poses challenges:

Positive Impact: Revenue supports anti-poaching initiatives, habitat preservation, and local communities.
Negative Impact: Over-tourism, especially near river crossings, can disrupt animal behavior. Sustainable tourism practices are essential to balancing economic benefits with ecological health.

21. How do wildebeest migrations support biodiversity?

The migration is a cornerstone for the Serengeti-Masai Mara ecosystem:

Grasslands: Grazing prevents overgrowth and maintains plant diversity.
Predator Populations: Lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles depend on migratory prey.
Smaller Herbivores: Gazelles and zebras benefit from improved grazing conditions created by wildebeest.

22. How do changing migration routes affect the ecosystem?

As migration routes shift due to climate change or human activity, ecosystems face challenges:

Overgrazing: Concentrated herds in smaller areas lead to overgrazing, depleting resources.
Predator-Starvation Cycles: Altered routes may reduce predator access to prey, affecting their populations.
Disrupted Nutrient Cycling: Reduced movement limits the distribution of nutrients across the ecosystem.

23. Are wildebeest social animals?

Wildebeest are highly social, relying on herd dynamics for survival:

Group Behavior: Large herds provide safety from predators and improve foraging efficiency.
Communication: They use vocalizations and visual cues to coordinate movements. This social structure is crucial for navigating the migration.

24. How do wildebeest avoid inbreeding in such large herds?

Despite their massive numbers, wildebeest avoid inbreeding through:

Continuous Mixing: Migration ensures genetic exchange as herds intermingle.
Short Mating Season: Most calves are born in a short time frame, increasing the likelihood of diverse pairings.

25. Why is the Great Migration considered a natural wonder?

The Great Migration is unparalleled in its:

Spectacle: Events like river crossings showcase raw, unfiltered nature. It is a living example of ecological resilience and interconnectedness, earning its place as one of the “Seven Natural Wonders of Africa.”

Scale: Over 1.5 million animals participate, covering 800–1,000 km annually.

Biodiversity Impact: Sustains predators, scavengers, and grassland ecosystems.

What is the survival rate of wildebeest during migration?

According to Sinclair and Arcese (1995), the survival rate during migration including during river crossings is approximately 85–90%, meaning around 10–15% of wildebeest perish annually at this stage of the migration. With over 1.2 million wildebeest participating, this equates to tens of thousands of deaths each year.

Additional helpful resources;