How Do Wildebeests Survive the Migration Journey?
The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most amazing animal movements on Earth. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeests travel across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This journey is full of danger, but the wildebeests have special ways to survive. In this blog, we at Seko Tours will guide you through how these animals make it through the tough journey.
Why Do Wildebeests Migrate?
Wildebeests move to find fresh grass and water. When the dry season comes, they leave the Serengeti and head north to Kenya’s Maasai Mara, where there is more food. After the rains return, they go back to Tanzania. This cycle continues every year.
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How Do They Find Their Way?
Wildebeests do not have maps or guides, but they always know where to go. Scientists believe they follow the smell of rain and fresh grass. They also move together in big groups, which helps them stay on the right path.
How Do They Survive Predators?
The migration is full of danger. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and crocodiles wait for a chance to catch a wildebeest. But wildebeests have smart ways to survive:
- Moving in Large Numbers – When they stay in big groups, it is harder for predators to catch them.
- Running Fast – Wildebeests can run up to 80 km/h, which helps them escape danger.
- Being Alert – Their big eyes and ears help them see and hear predators quickly.
How Do They Cross Rivers?
One of the scariest parts of the migration is crossing the Mara River. The river is full of hungry crocodiles, and the strong currents can sweep them away. But wildebeests still cross because they must reach fresh grass. They do it by:
- Following the Leader – When one wildebeest jumps in, others follow.
- Choosing the Best Spot – They look for shallow areas to cross safely.
- Being Brave – Even though many do not make it, the herd keeps moving.
How Do They Survive Long Journeys Without Getting Tired?
The migration is over 1,000 km long. To keep going, wildebeests have strong legs and bodies. They also eat grass all the time, which gives them energy. Unlike humans, wildebeests can sleep while standing, which helps them stay safe from predators.
How Do They Take Care of Their Babies?
More than 500,000 wildebeest babies are born every year in the Serengeti. These babies must be strong to survive. Here’s how they do it:
- Walking Soon After Birth – A baby wildebeest can stand and run within minutes of being born.
- Staying with the Herd – The herd protects the babies from predators.
- Getting Milk from Mothers – Baby wildebeests drink their mother’s milk, which makes them strong.
What Can We Learn from the Wildebeest Migration?
The wildebeest migration teaches us about nature’s balance. It shows how animals and the environment are connected. The grass grows, the wildebeests eat it, and the predators hunt them. Everything happens in a cycle, just like nature planned it.
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Experience the Wildebeest Migration with Seko Tours
Seeing the migration in person is an unforgettable experience. At Seko Tours, we can help you plan a Kenya safari to witness this natural wonder up close. Whether you want to see the river crossings or the great herds in the open plains, we can create a custom safari just for you.
