Wildebeests give birth during the calving season. This happens between December and April. It is called the calving season. It usually happens in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. It marks the start of the wildebeest migration. The animals move from the South to the northern part of the Park. Then, they cross to Masai Mara National Reserve for greener pastures. In the end, they return to Tanzania for the calving season again. In this post, we provide wildebeest migration updates. You will learn a lot about migration. The info can help plan for a memorable safari.
Wildebeest Migration Update: Birth of a Newborn Calf
Can I see a newborn calf during the wildebeest migration? Wildebeests migrate across the year. They migrate from the southern part of Serengeti to the northern part. They migrate from Serengeti to Kenya. They also migrate from Kenya to Serengeti. You can see a newborn calf during the calving season. With a wildebeest migration update, you get to know what is happening in the wilderness.
Wildebeest migration timeline
The great migration is not a one-time event. It is a process. Here is a wildebeest migration timeline. The timing may not be accurate. Climate change is affecting weather patterns in Africa. This is also affecting migration.
December to April
During this time of the year, wildebeests are found in Tanzania. They are seen in Serengeti National park. You can spot them in the southern part of the park. This is between Ngorongoro and Ndutu plains.
This season is very important for the animals. It is when calving occurs. Headlines such as Wildebeest migration update: Birth of a newborn calf are common. This season, you are more likely to see a calf. You may also be lucky to witness the birth.
In this season, wildebeests prefer staying in grasslands. Such places are good for young ones.
What preys on wildebeest calves? Leopards and lions love preying on calves. You can spot them during this season.
Towards the end of April, wildebeests move north.
May to June
Depending on the rains, the northern part of the park tends to have fresh grass. Wildebeests move to this place with their calves. They are seen migrating in huge columns. The column can be as long as 25 miles. Other animals are seen with wildebeests. You can see gazelles and zebras. The rains end in June in Tanzania. But this may change. This is because of climate change being experienced across the world. At this point, they will cross River Grumeti. This is a sign that the wildebeest migration in Kenya is closer.
July to September
As we move to July, people start asking for wildebeest migration updates. This is because this is the time the animals start migrating to Kenya. The event is known as the Great Migration. It is among the wonders of the world. Millions of animals move to Kenya in search of greener pastures.
Wildebeests start cross the Mara River. They go to Masai Mara National reserve for fresh water and grass. Other animals such as zebras are part of this migration. The migration usually starts in July. But timings are never accurate. It all depends on nature.
Crossing the Mara River is usually a big challenge. Mostly, the river is in full flow during the migration. This brings panic and fear. Then, there are predators waiting in the river and within.
What preys on wildebeest calves? During the migration, crocodiles are ready to attack calves in the river. But they also prey on adult animals. At the banks of the river, lions, hyenas, and other predators are ready for an ambush. This creates a lot of confusion and panic. But the animals must cross the river.
Tourists love witnessing this hard battle. You get to experience tension as animals fight for survival. Then, there is relief when you see a zebra crossing the river safely. Hundreds of thousands of tourists have been part of this experience.
By August, most animals have crossed the river. The majority are in Masai Mara enjoying fresh grass and water. You can see them during game drives. You also get to spot many other animals in the reserve.
To witness the event, ask for a wildebeest migration update. This way, you can time this wonder of the world.
October to November
This is the season when East Africa receives short rains. It marks the end of the wildebeest migration in Kenya. The animals start migrating back to Tanzania. Mostly, in November, they are already in Serengeti. There is a lot of fresh grass in the southern part of the park. The calving season starts again. Predators also move to prey on calves. The wildebeest migration cycle starts again.
It is good to ask for wildebeest migration updates. This way, you get to know the location of the animals. You cannot learn everything about wildebeests during the Great Migration in Kenya. During this season, you will see them fighting for survival in the Mara River. You will see millions of animals crossing the dangerous river. But you may not witness the birth of a newborn calf. This is only possible during the calving season. So, you need proper planning for your preferred event.
To be part of the fascinating migration, book a safari tour. We can help you have an unforgettable experience. Feel free to reach out for any help booking your safari.