The Wildebeest Migration
It’s been raining in the Mara and along the peripheries of the reserve since last week. The grass is getting greener and the streams and marshes are filling up making them difficult to cross without a 4X4.
The wildebeest are still in the Mara, moving in zigzag patterns. It’s raining a lot in northwest of the Mara and hence, attracting the herds of wildebeest – they are moving from the south through Posse and Burrugat Plains. The herd has split into two groups. The big group has gone through Olmisigiyioi, along the Sand River to the Lookout Crossing reaching the burned area in the Triangle bordering the Siria Escarpment.
Other herds are splitting into smaller groups in search of the greener pastures.
The herd that has taken the north route towards Posse and Burrugat are crossing Talek River at numerous crossings to reach Olkiombo Plains and Rhino Ridge down to Paradise Plains. Some are crossing between Fig Tree Camp and Mara Intrepids Camp, and others between Mara Intrepids and Rekero Camp. From Olkiombo Plains to Paradise Crossing, there are herds of wildebeest and zebras. Crossings are still taking place, down by Lookout Hill south of Mara Intrepids Camp and Paradise Crossing, west of Mara Intrepids Camp, all heading to the Mara Triangle for greener pastures.
Many are reluctant to cross Mara River because there is enough water in the natural water holes in the plains for them to drink after grazing on the dry grass.
Big Cats
Lions
The Ridge Pride, which consists of 14 members – two males, six females and six cubs of different ages, is the most active pride around Olkiombo and Topi Plains. It is patrolling the area between Double Crossing and Topi Plains.
The Olkiombo Pride is still waiting on the southern side of Talek River between Mara Intrepids Camp and Fig Tree Camp. The three males - Cheza, Sala and Junior are still busy with the lioness from the Maji-ya-Fisi pride.
Leopards
Olive the female leopard and her two male cubs have not been seen for two weeks.
Many the cubs are now independent. Kayoni is west of Olkiombo airstrip and Paja is upstream of Intiakitiak River.
Cheetahs
Alama the female cheetah with her two male cubs is between Mara Intrepids Camp and Rekero Camp. The three brothers are at Rhino Ridge killing the young wildebeest and zebras almost every day.
(Pictures © Paul Kirui & John Parmasau)
No comments:
Post a Comment