Serengeti National Park is home to over 300 wild animal species and is where the great migration originates. The marathon is led by wildebeest, accompanied by 300,000 zebras characterized by their white and black stripes. There are also rare black-spotted zebras, which scientists have confirmed to be albino, lacking melanin.
These albino zebras have a short lifespan as they are discriminated against and left alone, making them easy prey for predators. A typical zebra has a bushy tail, is large when fully grown, and is a grass eater.
Gazelles also follow the trail, primarily Thompson’s gazelles and Grant’s gazelles. While over 500,000 Thompson’s gazelles take part in the migration, only a few reach the Mara land. Some are attacked by crocodiles in the water, and others succumb to exhaustion and hunger. These gazelles are characterized by stripes with markings that accentuate their tan buff coats and rumps. They are lean, agile, and strong with permanent horns.
The shy Eland, belonging to the antelope family, also participate in the migration. They are considered the largest antelope species, with fawn coloring, long black spirals on both sexes, and living in large groups of over 500 herds.
Predators gather at the banks of the Mara River, waiting for crocodile survivors. These predators include lions, leopards, and cheetahs, eagerly waiting to feast on those that may get stuck in the mud or those feeding on the green grass.
Elephants, giraffes, rhinos, and buffaloes also stand at a distance, observing their fellow herbivores. The reptiles search for hiding spots to avoid the animals that may trample them while running in different directions.
The migration season is a busy period in the wild. To comfortably observe the events in the field, it is essential to book in advance. First, research the tour company you intend to trust with your journey since there are frauds in the industry. Make sure that the accommodations offer ample security and are well-facilitated with comfortable bedding, clean bathrooms, private balconies, a garden, a mini-bar, and a restaurant serving delicious meals. Some options include Mbalageti Serengeti, Siringit Serengeti Camp, Serengeti Serena Lodge, Sanctuary Serengeti Migration Camp, Asanja Moru, Serengeti Woodlands Camp, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Zawadi Serengeti Camp, to name a few.
In this migration spectacle, patience is key. These species may line up at the riverbed without crossing over. Book now and fly to the land of the wildebeests, and wait for their movement.
