Scientists have recorded the largest land mammal migration in the world: around 6 million wildebeest crossing East Africa. The impressive event was made possible thanks to the collaboration between African Parks and the government of South Sudan, which implemented a large-scale project to track the animals’ migration routes.
Large-scale aerial photography
Following the first rains of the season, aircraft conducted a large-scale aerial survey of the Boma Badingilo Jonglei region in eastern South Sudan between 28 April and 15 May 2023. The results were impressive: around 5 million white-eared kob antelopes, 300,000 tiang, 350,000 Mongolian gazelles and 160,000 Bohor reed antelopes were documented migrating.
Meaning of the results
“The results of this study are simply stunning. “The staggering scale of the migration is matched only by the responsibility of ensuring its future survival in an extremely complex environment,” said Peter Fernhead, Director General of African Parks. As well as antelopes, scientists also recorded significant populations of elephants, giraffes, lions and cheetahs, as well as large bird populations such as the open-billed stork, marabou, yellow-billed stork and black crane.
Threats to biodiversity
Although there is a significant amount of wildlife in the region, biodiversity faces numerous threats. A comparison with studies from the 1980s shows a catastrophic decline in resident species such as elephant, wild boar, cheetah, hippo and buffalo. One of the main threats is illegal poaching, which Fernhead says has reached an unprecedented level.
Impact of conflicts
The situation is further complicated by the effects of years of civil war and ethnic violence in South Sudan, which have affected animal movements and made wildlife surveys nearly impossible. The future of these ecosystems depends on how human relations in the region will be improved.
Cooperation for conservation
“This wildlife and the wider ecosystem underpin the survival of many ethnic groups who are often in conflict over resources. Successful management of this environment will only be possible by building trust between these groups,” Fernhead explained. Working with local communities to protect this important ecosystem will help preserve the phenomenon of global migration and ensure stability and sustainable development for people living in the region.
The future of the Great Migration depends on joint efforts to protect the natural environment and strengthen peace in South Sudan. Only through joint action can we ensure that this magnificent natural event continues to exist and delight future generations. Source
Source: Port Altele
