In the vast grasslands of South Sudan, a herd of antelope roams in what is considered the largest migration of land mammals in the world. The country’s wildlife was recently the subject of a comprehensive aerial study conducted by conservation scientists, which revealed an estimated 6 million specimens. The study, which took place in 2023 over a two-week period in two national parks and surrounding areas, used aerial observations, nearly 60 thousand photos, and monitoring of over a hundred collared specimens in approximately 120 thousand square kilometers.
The estimate by the non-profit organization African Parks, in collaboration with the government of South Sudan, surpasses the migration numbers of other large herds like the wildebeest in the Serengeti. However, despite the impressive numbers, these animals face a significant threat from commercial poaching due to widespread access to firearms and weak law enforcement in the region. Conservation scientist Mike Fay emphasized the importance of protecting this unique migration to prevent further disruption to the planet’s ecosystem.
South Sudan is still recovering from years of conflict and unrest but is promoting its antelope migration as a source of national pride and a potential tourist attraction. The country has six national parks and a dozen game reserves covering over 13% of its territory, with the migration spanning from Badingilo and Boma National Parks to neighboring Ethiopia. The four main antelope species that make up this migration are white-eared conch, tiang, Mongalla gazelle, and bohor antelope. As South Sudan looks to rebuild and promote tourism safeguarding this migration has become a priority for conservation efforts in the region.
Protecting this unique migration is crucial for preserving biodiversity and preventing further disruption to ecosystems around the world. Commercial poaching poses an immediate threat to these animals as well as to future generations who may not have access to witness such magnificent sightings.
South Sudan has been working hard to promote its natural resources while also prioritizing conservation efforts that will ensure long-term sustainability for both its people and wildlife.
In conclusion, protecting this massive herd should be at the forefront of conservation efforts globally as it represents not only an important ecological phenomenon but also an opportunity for economic growth through sustainable tourism development.
