Migration in Kruger National Park: The Annual Zebra & Wildebeest Journey
Kruger National Park is a landscape shaped by incredible geological diversity, from ancient granite formations to the basalt plains of the central region. Some of the rocks in the Park are among the oldest exposed rocks on Earth, dating back about 3 billion years.
About 30 years ago, section ranger Ted Whitfield observed a notable local movement that he termed a ‘mini migration’ involving zebra and wildebeest. While this migration might be less known globally, it is as significant as other more famous migrations across Africa. Ted noted that during the winter months, these animals trekked southward, following the fertile eastern plains of the Park.
The basalt plains are known for their nutrient-rich soil, making them highly productive. This fertility produces sweet grass that sustains large herds of plains game. Naturally, these abundant herds also attract predators. Central to this activity is the Satara area, particularly around the Mavumbye River, where the KrugerUntamed Satara Plains Camp is located.
The migration of zebra and wildebeest in Kruger National Park begins in May, initiated by the dry winter conditions in the northern regions. As the grasses die back, these animals start their southward journey in search of better grazing, typically arriving on the Mondolozi plains, just north of Lower Sabie, around July.
It’s no secret that the Satara regions boasts the highest density of lion in the Park. They are quick to capitalise on the arrival of the zebra and wildebeest herds. This interplay between predator and prey plays a vital role in preserving the ecological balance of the Park. It embodies the untamed spirit of Kruger Park, which is what makes it so extraordinary.
Last week I watched a single lioness stalk a zebra. It moved with calculated stealth, and one could sense she was fully aware that a well-timed kick from the zebra could be lethal. She was driven by hunger and desperation, but she had to carefully balance the risk of hunting a powerfully built zebra stallion. Ultimately, since she was hunting alone, she decided to abandon the hunt.
The Satara Plains Camp is ideally located to witness these thrilling hunts.
As the season shifts towards spring, the migration cycle begins anew, with animals returning to the granite plains, revitalised by seasonal rains. This perpetual cycle highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Park’s wildlife. Like all natural processes, this is not an exact science and is affected by rainfall and controlled burns in parts of the Park.
This annual migration in Kruger National Park is not just a movement of animals; it’s a dynamic event that sustains the Park’s ecosystem, showcasing the profound connection between the land and its inhabitants.
