Every year, millions of wildebeest migrate across the African continent in search of food and water. This extraordinary event is known as the Great Migration and it is one of the most spectacular natural phenomena. Learn more about this amazing event with these fun facts about the Wildebeest Migration!
Amazing Migration Facts
The Great Migration is an annual event in which more than two million wildebeest and antelope migrate across the open plains of the Serengeti, Tanzania, and Kenya. It is thought to be the largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet. The journey is an arduous one and the animals must brave the treacherous terrain and numerous predators. Not all of them survive, but those who do make it to the other side are rewarded with lush grasslands and plentiful water.
The exact timing of the migration changes every year, depending on the weather and vegetation growth. The migration typically begins in the Serengeti in late May or early June and then continues north of the Mara River in Kenya. Along the way, the animals face a variety of obstacles, including rivers, swamps, and steep hills.
One of the most incredible facts about the migration is that it is a never-ending cycle. Each year, the animals return to the same spot they started from and the process begins again. This is why the event is referred to as the Great Migration.
Learn About the Wildebeest
The wildebeest is an antelope-like animal, also known as an African gnu, that is native to the grasslands of Africa. It has a barrel-shaped body, long legs, and a thick tail. Its coat is usually a gray-brown color, with some individuals having patches of dark brown or black. The wildebeest is a herbivore and its diet consists of grass, leaves, and other vegetation.
The wildebeest is a herd animal and they travel in large groups which can easily number in the thousands. This is the best way for them to stay safe from predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. During the migration, the groups will often split up and reform as the journey progresses.
The wildebeest is an incredibly resilient species and its ability to survive such a long and dangerous journey is truly remarkable. Watching the Great Migration is an unforgettable experience and it is a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
From the remarkable timing of the migration to the resilience of the wildebeest, the Great Migration is a truly awe-inspiring event. The next time you witness this amazing event, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey that the wildebeest undertake every year.