This article highlights the reasons for the wildebeest migration. Following the rain pattern stands as one of the strong reasons why the migrating species trek. In a continent like Africa, the climate is constantly changing, with distinct dry and wet seasons. The wildebeests are forced to move during the dry season when the savanna vegetation has dried up and head to Masai Mara National Reserve. This is the point in time when food becomes inadequate, and they are forced to seek areas with rain. The grass there is nutritious and plentiful since fewer animals have feasted on it. In large numbers, grass can deplete rapidly, so the numerous wildebeests, along with other grass eaters like zebras, gazelles, and elephants, consume the grass quickly, especially during the dry season when it cannot grow back due to insufficient rainfall. It’s this period, around July when the calving season also takes place.
Mothers are walking miracles. The females in the herd struggle hard to cross the fierce river, fight the formidable predators, and finally reach the promised land where they conceive and feed their young ones. As for zebras, they are fast runners and have the gift of sensing danger from afar, making them challenging to catch.
Visiting East Africa is one of the most delightful adventures, especially if you include the following activities in your planned schedule:
- Visiting the Maasai Village: Building friendships makes the environment more comfortable for you, so don’t bypass the Maasai village without saying hi. You might find yourself returning to the people you initially avoided. Take a walk through their village, especially after the dazzling sunrise reflects its rays on cool water sources. Participate in the high-jump local dance and pause for 15 minutes for photographs.
- Walking through Masai Mara: Many tourists who come to see the wildebeest migration engage in nature walks, as it’s considered an interesting way to visualize the reality of the environment. While waiting for the main event, you can observe other animals during your stroll, ensuring you won’t get bored.
- Game Drives: Game drives are secure since animals generally fear vehicles they consider as larger species that can outcompete them. This keeps the animals at a comfortable distance, allowing tourists to capture various animal behaviors without any safety concerns.
“Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.”
