Category : Great Migration Africa en | Sub Category : Migration Routes Posted on 2023-07-07 21:24:53
The Great Migration in Africa is one of the most spectacular natural events on the planet. Each year, millions of wildebeest and other grazing animals make a circular journey in search of greener pastures, covering vast distances across the Serengeti plains in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya.
One of the key aspects of the Great Migration is the migration routes that these animals follow. There are several main routes that the herds take as they move in search of food and water. The animals are highly organized and follow a pattern that has been passed down for generations.
The southern route is one of the first migration routes that the wildebeest take. They start in the southern Serengeti, where the calving season takes place between January and March. As the young calves gain strength, the herds start moving towards the western corridor, crossing the Grumeti River with its notorious crocodile-infested waters.
The western corridor leads the wildebeest northwards towards the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This part of the journey involves crossing the treacherous Mara River, where the animals have to contend with strong currents and hungry predators like crocodiles and lions.
Once in the Maasai Mara, the wildebeest spread out across the grasslands, feasting on the nutrient-rich vegetation. As the dry season approaches, the herds start their journey back towards the Serengeti, following the northern route. This route takes them through the Lobo area, where they must navigate the steep and rocky terrain of the Kopjes.
The Great Migration is a stunning example of the resilience and adaptability of wildlife in the face of environmental challenges. By understanding the migration routes and the challenges that the animals face along the way, we can gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible natural phenomenon.
Next time you see footage of the Great Migration, remember the long and arduous journey that these animals undertake each year, and marvel at the beauty and complexity of nature.