WILDEBEESTS MIGRATION SEASONS – Wildebeests also known as Gnus belong to Antelope family inhabiting some national parks in Africa. But more concentrated in Serengeti national park and Masai Mara national reserve.
The great wildebeest migration takes place annually between Masai Mara national reserve, Serengeti national park and Ngorongoro conservation area in Tanzania. The exact reason for the wildebeests moving is unknown. But some researchers and scientists presuppose that it’s in search of water and greener pastures.
During the wildebeests migration seasons, millions of wildebeests, thousands of zebras, gazelles and other antelopes embark on a journey. Followed by hundreds of predators like lions, leopards and hyenas while crocodiles lie in wait at the river crossings. The migration has been dubbed among the 7 natural wonders of the world.
The wildebeests migration is on the move all year round. The exact dates of river crossings can sometimes be unpredictable. But we can look at seasons below to determine the location of wildebeests at that time. Since the migration happens annually, we are able to know the location of mass numbers at a time.
December to March
From December to around April, the wildebeests can be found around Ngorongoro conservation area and Ndutu plains south of Serengeti national park. This is the best time to witness the calving season when thousands of wildebeests are born at the area. Unfortunately or fortunately you will witness predators preying on the young wildebeests during this time. Other animals surround birthing mothers to protect their young and take advantage of the short vegetation to clearly see predators and ensure safety of their young. About 400,000 wildebeests are born during this time.
April to June
From May to June the animals move from Ngorongoro conservation area and Ndutu plains to the north further spreading to the central and western parts of Serengeti national park. This is also the mating season where male wildebeests battle for females, the animals conjugate in large numbers around the Grumeti River. Large numbers cross the Grumeti River around June. This is the toughest time as predators follow closely while others wait for survivors for the other side of the Mara River which also harbors thousands of crocodiles.
July to September
From July you will witnessing some of the most dramatic wildlife shows on earth with millions of animals crossing the crocodile infested Mara river. Survival is for the strong. Changing to see the river crossings will entirely depend on nature as the animals can cross anytime of the day. The wildebeests spread across the Masai River plains
October to November
From October, the animals start to leave Masai Mara for the eastern parts of Serengeti crossing the Mara River once again. This is the best time to view cheetahs at Namiri plains
It’s estimated that about 250,000 wildebeets die during the migration mainly as a result of exhaustion, predation and thirst.
The wildebeests migration can be seen while on a safari game drive. Spectacular river crossings can be witnessed at some accommodations. The best way to witnessing the outstanding migration is by taking a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara.
