Why Zebra and Wildebeest Migrate Together

Zebra and wildebeest often travel together along the migration route in huge mixed herds. It's neither coincidence nor convenience. The two species benefit from each other, which makes moving together a smarter strategy than migrating apart. It starts with feeding habits that complement instead of compete. Zebras graze the taller, tougher grass first, which uncovers the shorter grass beneath that wildebeest prefer. Each species clears the way, in turn, to the other's ideal food, so they aren't fighting over the same forage. There's a second, less obvious advantage. Zebras seem to remember earlier migration routes better than wildebeest do, which may help steer the larger, more numerous herd along paths that have worked in past years. It's an interesting piece of wild behavior to watch for on a game drive: two species that aren't merely sharing space but gaining from each other's company. Read more about how the migration route works, or browse our safari itineraries.