The migration cycle
begins in the southern Serengeti plains of Tanzania, where wildebeests gather
to calve from January to March. During this crucial period, thousands of calves
are born, with the rich grasslands providing ample nourishment for both mothers
and their young. The high birth rate during the calving season plays a vital
role in ensuring the survival of the species, setting the stage for the epic
journey ahead.
As the dry season
approaches, the herds start their northward trek from April to May, driven by
the need for fresh grazing grounds. They traverse the Serengeti’s central and
western regions, navigating the treacherous terrain of the Grumeti River. This
part of the migration is fraught with challenges, including predators and
natural obstacles, which test the resilience of the wildebeests.
The most dramatic and
perilous phase of the migration occurs between June and August, when the herds
reach the Mara River in Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. The wildebeests
face the daunting task of crossing the river, contending with crocodiles and
strong currents. This crossing is one of the most thrilling and dangerous
aspects of the migration cycle, often captured in stunning wildlife
documentaries.
Once the wildebeests have
successfully crossed the Mara River, they find refuge in the lush grasslands of
the Maasai Mara from July to October. This period is marked by abundant grazing
opportunities, allowing the herds to regain their strength before the journey
southward. The Maasai Mara serves as a temporary haven, providing a much-needed
respite before the migration cycle begins anew.
As the seasons shift and the grasslands in the Maasai Mara start to dry up, the herds embark on their return journey to the Serengeti from November to December. This return migration involves crossing the Mara River once again, where the cycle of crossing and survival continues. Driven by the search for fresh grazing grounds, the wildebeests make their way back to the Serengeti’s southern plains, ready to start the cycle afresh.
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