Wildebeest

[Kyle Jones]

We timed our trip to Kenya to align with the migration of wildebeest and other grazers to the savannah of the Mara. I both wanted to see the huge numbers of animals on the plains as well as a crossing of the Mara river. Wildebeest, generally accompanied by zebras, were all over the place. Much like driving through cattle country in California there were large herds around every corner. We did get word one day of a potential crossing. That was an interesting experience. Safari vehicles (dozens? more?) were gathering near the river while also keeping a respectful distance. Wildebeest are skittish when approaching a river crossing, and having vehicles nearby can discourage them from attempting it. Animals would approach the river, and then change their mind and retreat. Eventually they started across and momentum took over pushing the herd forward. At this point all of the vehicles made a mad dash to the river's edge. It was crazy. Our driver found a spot where we could see both sides of the river and I captured some frames with what looked to be the maximum number of wildebeest crossing at the same time. This one is probably my favorite.

Another smaller crossing took place later in the day at a location with only obscured views. I did get some (bad) photos of a crocodile taking down a wildebeest but nothing worth sharing. On another day I tried filling the frame with these weird looking creatures. As usual, there were some zebra standing guard in the background. Zebra are much more aware of potential threats and act as lookouts for the whole group.

 

[AlanLichty]

Fun shots - I really like the crossing view with the herd scampering up the rocky slope on the far shore. Looks like an easy place to slip with wet hooves. The second image is cool for the better view of the wildebeest facial markings and zebras behind. What's in this lookout arrangement for the zebras? Are the wildebeests hanging out near the zebras or are the zebras following the wildebeests around?

 

[Kyle Jones]

Fun shots - I really like the crossing view with the herd scampering up the rocky slope on the far shore. Looks like an easy place to slip with wet hooves. The second image is cool for the better view of the wildebeest facial markings and zebras behind. What's in this lookout arrangement for the zebras? Are the wildebeests hanging out near the zebras or are the zebras following the wildebeests around?

It seems like the zebras follow them around. It was interesting seeing which prey animals are observant (zebra, topi, gazelle) and which absolutely weren't (wildebeest, warthog).

 

[JimFox]

Wow, it's so cool to see the wide view of them to put things into perspective. But man, #2 is so awesome!

And that's cool how the zebra help out the herd.

 

[BlackRockArt]

We timed our trip to Kenya to align with the migration of wildebeest and other grazers to the savannah of the Mara. I both wanted to see the huge numbers of animals on the plains as well as a crossing of the Mara river. Wildebeest, generally accompanied by zebras, were all over the place. Much like driving through cattle country in California there were large herds around every corner. We did get word one day of a potential crossing. That was an interesting experience. Safari vehicles (dozens? more?) were gathering near the river while also keeping a respectful distance. Wildebeest are skittish when approaching a river crossing, and having vehicles nearby can discourage them from attempting it. Animals would approach the river, and then change their mind and retreat. Eventually they started across and momentum took over pushing the herd forward. At this point all of the vehicles made a mad dash to the river's edge. It was crazy. Our driver found a spot where we could see both sides of the river and I captured some frames with what looked to be the maximum number of wildebeest crossing at the same time. This one is probably my favorite.

View attachment 90575

Another smaller crossing took place later in the day at a location with only obscured views. I did get some (bad) photos of a crocodile taking down a wildebeest but nothing worth sharing. On another day I tried filling the frame with these weird looking creatures. As usual, there were some zebra standing guard in the background. Zebra are much more aware of potential threats and act as lookouts for the whole group.

View attachment 90574

Hey Kyle, this is really cute photo. These animals always fascinated me

Oliver