The Great Migration – Wildebeest heading north across the Mara River in the Serengeti. One of the most spectacular wildlife sights on the planet! Massive herds of Wildebeest numbering hundreds of thousands of animals migrate around the Serengeti and Maasai Mara ecosystem in the constant search for fresh pasture. The location of the rains and as a consequence fresh pasture drive the gigantic herds onwards. To get to the food they desperately need these animals must cross the Mara River. Tens of thousands of Wildebeest mass on the river bank with many more approaching as far as the eye can see. The crossings are fraught with danger: the rocky river bed causes broken limbs and large numbers of huge Nile Crocodiles lie in wait. The massive herds of Wildebeest jostle for position on the river bank waiting for a few animals to take the plunge. Once this happens they all follow in a chaotic and noisy scene as thousands upon thousands of animals cross the Mara River at carefully chosen crossing points that are used time and time again over the years. The Lamai Wedge in the Northern Serengeti, Tanzania provides a wonderful vantage point to experience this most wondrous great Migration – Wildebeest heading north across the Mara River in their thousands.
The Western White-bearded Wildebeest is one of the most numerous antelope.It is estimated that 1.5 million are found in the Serengeti/ Maasai Mara ecosystem. These animals are grazers and prefer open grassland savanna and savanna woodlands where they have ready access to drinking water. Males stand up to 1.5m at the shoulder and can weigh up to 250kg.