The concentration of wildebeest and zebra herds in the Maasai Mara has been building faster than expected over the past week. The light showers that swept across the southern and eastern Mara have accelerated the arrival of new herds from the northern Serengeti, where they had briefly settled on areas of recently burned grassland. The herds are now spread all over the Keekorok Plains and around Roan Hill, with several larger herds grazing on the Burrungat Plains south of the Talek River. There have been a few crossings near Lookout Hill over the past few days – although they have not been as dramatic as usual, owing to the low water levels.
The northern migration of herds from the Loita Hills, meanwhile, is now spread from Musiara Gate down to the Ntiakitiak River and south to the Talek Gate. Over the past week, these herds have been streaming in small numbers towards the Paradise Plains, with some crossing westwards into the Mara Conservancy. These herds still have a higher concentration of zebras than wildebeest.
Predators
Along the Sand River's northern bank, a pride of 30 lions have been very active hunters since the herds came into their territory two weeks ago. This pride, which once numbered 48, is believed to be the largest in the Mara ecosystem, although the last lean season saw them separating into several smaller prides. To the north, the Ridge Pride is still very active, with many attempted hunts witnessed by our guests over the past week, while the old Bila Shaka Pride has regrouped to the north of Rhino Ridge. We have also been enjoying some wonderful sightings of cheetahs and leopards, including our beloved Bella of Big Cat Diary fame.
Keep your eyes peeled for all the action, with our ever-vigilant guides from Heritage Hotels!
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