Wildebeest migration

Long faces, horns, bearded chins, and a dark mane are the most apparent physical characteristics of this animal. Approx 1.5 million take part in the migration beginning in Kenya and crossing the border into Tanzania to begin their rotational migration to better grazing lands. Zebra often follow this migration and so it wasn't a surprise when we came across the wildebeest, there were many zebras around as well.

Remember the old cowboy movies where they were out riding the range and then a glance into the distance, the cowboys would notice the horizon filled with native Indians on horses ready to fight/defend their land? Well, our horizon view had a similar surreal look...it almost looked like a line of trees...but it was wildebeests that had completely taken over our view. There were thousands of them!



One thing we learned is that other than size (which isn't always apparent), it is difficult to tell the difference between male and females. You would have to take a close look at the 'undercarriage' to know for sure.

The other thing we learned is that the females will all calve in the same week. It must be just amazing to see all the newborn calves

There were hundreds of zebra (incl some young ones)and we also saw some elands, two kinds of gazelles, hyenas (they really are mangey looking!), and more jackals.



We had a picnic lunch under a lone acacia tree (likely a couple of hundred years old) and slowly made our way back to camp. It was a very long drive today, but to see this migration - it was a real treat. The Serengeti plains are barren for the most part (at least what we could see), but the grass is perfect for grazing. We joked that it was like crossing the flat prairies.



A big bonfire was waiting for us back at camp and we relaxed around it following dinner. A nice way to end the day.

One thing I will comment on - the food. We think that the safari company/cook is trying to appeal to 'westerners' in their choices of meals offered. The guide said the food choices are not part of the African diet (except for the really yummy African dishes they made for us). So as it turns out, it seems that they think we all eat a lot of fried foods!! Unfortunately, it really isn't what 'we' like and we are longing for something with a bit more nutrition or less fat - esp since we are sitting in a vehicle most of the day. They've suggested a bit of a walking safari for tomorrow afternoon (accompanied by a ranger) and we jumped at the chance for some 'exercise'!!!

Thankfully, the soup and fresh fruit is something we all like (although I don't suspect that the sodium levels in the soup would be considered low-sodium to Campbells) and we brought enough Clif bars, power bars, dried mango, nuts, and chocolate to satisfy 'cravings'.

We are having a blast and continue to enjoy reading the comments! Thanks everyone! It feels nice knowing that 'home' is close even when it isn't.

Marisa said thanks for the BD wishes! Both she and Walt have moved up an age group since we started this trip! Alas, Mark and I are still older than they are!