News from the Maasai Mara, Kenya 13th July 2005

The second week of the Great Migration has seen a remarkable increase in concentrations of wildebeest and zebra across the southern Mara. The beginning of this week saw an additional 5,000 animals congregating around and to the north of Sand River Gate. The first herds, meanwhile, have pushed further west to Roan Hill and have been joined by another herd of about 2,000 wildebeest that crossed from the Serengeti around Naima Lumbwa hills. The increase in the past two days alone confirms our gut-feeling that the ‘main event’ has now arrived in earnest.


The burning of grass in northern Serengeti must have hastened the wildebeests’ pace from the south, as they usually associate such burning with lush shoots of new grass. This normally happens if we get some rains immediately after the burning. However, the burning may not be so extensive this time because the grass is still green from last month’s late rains.


With the wildebeest come their inevitable pursuers. Two large prides of lions have recently taken up strategic residence between Sand River and Keekorok Lodge. Alerted by the constant thump of pounding hooves, they are now very aware that the season of plenty has arrived – a reassuring sign that they will be able to survive the next five months without going hungry. The leopards are also becoming active; our guides at Siana Springs have spotted a leopard and cub with a zebra foal up a tree near Sand River.


The Loita herds of wildebeest and zebra, meanwhile, are also increasing in number across the central Mara, near Musiara Gate, around ‘Double Cross’ and the Topi Plains east of Rhino Ridge. At Double Cross, the Ridge pride of lions are looking in fine fettle, with their new cubs bouncing back to health after the lean season. Intrepids and Explorer guests have been treated to several kills close to camp over the past week, as well as several entertaining close calls. It all promises a season of non-stop action and excitement for at least the next two months.Migration%20Map%2013-07-2005.jpgMigration%20Map%2013-07-2005.jpg