Why do wildebeest migration fanatics stream into Tanzania and Kenya between the months of July and October? The answer is simple: to witness the most dramatic highlight of the Great Migration where over 1.5 million wildebeests along with other herbivores cross the Mara River.
During the crossing particularly at the Mara Triangle–the main crossing point in the Mara River, the drama is normally intense.
Here, the herds face not only hungry carnivores on land, including the big cats but also crocodiles in the waters who lie waiting for the perfect moment to ambush them.
The water predators are equipped with sharp teeth and jaws powerful enough to sink into the herbivores’ necks, delivering a lethal grip to any animal unlucky enough to fall into their hands.
Oh, and by the way, did you know that the crocodile is the animal with the strongest biting force on earth? This aggressive reptile can exert a bite force of over 3,700 psi(pounds per square inch), a bite force capable of crushing even the toughest bones quite easily.
It’s sad to see how unlucky herds struggle to avoid drowning while at the same time trying to break free from the lethal grips of these vicious predators.
These dramatic struggles normally last a few minutes, culminating with lifeless prey and muddy waters heavily stained with blood.
I’m sure those who have witnessed this dramatic situation first-hand can easily picture what I am describing here.
But as they say, when nature unleashes its raw power, we should not judge, but just watch. It’s the circle of life that continues regardless of our emotions, a reminder that survival is never guaranteed.
Why Do Wildebeest Migration Routes Pass Through the Mara River?
The answer is simple: the areas along the Mara River are characterized by lush grazing lands, and the river itself serves as a great source of water for the animals.
As I stated in this post, the herbivores primarily make the journey in search of water and greener pastures.
During the Great Migration into Kenya, it’s usually the dry season in Serengeti National Park on the Tanzanian side. The fresh forage has dried up, and the water sources in the park can no longer sustain the herds, putting stress on the wildlife. This forces the animals to move in search of greener pastures across the border.
On the other hand, the Maasai Mara ecosystem, particularly around the Mara River is lush and vibrant, fed with annual rains at this time.
The long rains that fall between March and May and the short rains that fall between October and December bring relief to the ecosystem, making sure there’s water and fresh forage even when there’s drought in the Serengeti ecosystem.
This makes the areas along the Mara River an unavoidable part of the herds’ migration route, offering access to essential resources they need for their survival.
Why Do Wildebeest Migration Patterns Change Sometimes?
As you may already know, the Great Migration is an ever-changing, annual wildlife event. It doesn’t always happen at the same time each year, sometimes occurring earlier and other times taking place later.
The herds usually begin their journey between March and April, moving northward toward Kenya. This typically happens when drought begins to affect the Serengeti ecosystem, forcing the animals to search for water and grazing land elsewhere.
However, there are times when drought hasn’t yet set in during March and April, which leads the herbivores to delay the start of their migration for survival.
So, why do wildebeest migration patterns sometimes change?
The answer is simple: shifting drought and rainfall patterns.
When drought arrives early in the Serengeti, the animals begin their journey toward Kenya earlier than usual, and vice versa. The same is true for rainfall, another key factor that influences the migration trends of these animals.
Why Do Wildebeest Migration Journeys Result In High Mortality Rates?
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Great Migration is a thrilling, epic spectacle that showcases the incredible determination of animals to survive. However, for the animals themselves, as well as researchers and conservationists, it’s not always as exciting, given the high mortality rates that often result from this process.
Researchers estimate that almost 300,000 herbivores(including wildebeests) lose their lives each year during the migration. These deaths are caused by several factors such as predators, the Mara River, the overall terrain, stampedes, alongside diseases.
In fact, according to a publication by the Washington Post, the Mara River kills so many wildebeests every year during the crossing then gives life to everything else of nature.
Notably, the extremely dangerous terrain by the Mara River characterized by rough and slippery banks poses significant risk to thousands of vulnerable herds. This category includes herds that are weak due to age, injuries, or health-related factors.
Do Land Predators Cross the Mara River With the Wildebeests from Serengeti?
Land predators such as lions sometimes cross the Mara River along with the herds during the migration. However, this occurrence is quite rare because these predators don’t always see the need for that when they can rely on the chaotic crossing conditions to catch their prey easily. Normally, they prefer to camouflage on the banks, timing vulnerable herds to inadvertently separate from the groups, at which point they pounce.
Another reason predators will not get into the water is threat. Did you know that, under the right circumstances, a crocodile can actually attack and kill a full lion in water? Check out this video showing a crocodile attacking and killing a lion in a river.
Final Thoughts
Why do wildebeest migration enthusiasts flock to East Africa every year? The answer is simple: to witness the Great Migration, one of nature’s most thrilling and dramatic spectacles.
Over 1.5 million herbivores cross into Kenya from Tanzania while facing deadly predators both on land and in water. Taking place every year, the migration timelines sometimes vary, sometimes approaching early and other times coming late due to weather factors.
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