Great migration is the collective movement of animals from one area to another, often seasonally or in search of resources. These migrations usually occur when thousands or even millions of individuals move in the same direction.
Major migrations may differ between different animal groups. For example, in migrations common among birds, some species move to warmer regions in the summer to find food and breeding grounds, while in the winter they leave these areas and return further south from the warmer regions.
In addition, large mammals, insects, sea creatures and other animal groups can also perform large migrations. For example, the Great Migration in Africa is a famous migration in which millions of animals of various species move seasonally between Kenya and Tanzania each year. In this migration, animals such as zebra, gnu and various predators follow the green pastures in search of food.
Great migrations happen for a variety of reasons, including survival, reproduction, feeding, and the search for better living conditions for animals. Often driven by a natural instinct or the ability to use a cognitive map, animals have developed their migration routes and destinations over the years.
Great migrations play an important role in biodiversity and ecosystem functions. It also has a great attraction in terms of ecotourism and is one of the important natural events that should be watched, researched and protected for nature lovers.
The main purpose of great migrations is to seek better living conditions to increase the survival and reproductive success of animals. Great migrations enable animals to adapt to seasonally changing climatic conditions and maximize their access to resources.
The purpose of large migrations is associated with the following factors:
In search of food: Animals migrate to areas where food sources are abundant. For example, birds migrate to areas where they can find more insects and seeds in the summer, while large herbivores move to greener pastures.
Breeding areas: Many animals migrate to specific areas where the right breeding conditions are provided. These areas should be suitable for the rearing of the offspring and the provision of future generations. For example, sea turtles migrate to certain areas on the coast and lay their eggs.
Climate changes: Seasonally changing climatic conditions encourage animals to migrate. Food can be difficult to find during the cold winter months, so some animals may migrate to warmer areas, while in the hot summer months they may migrate to cooler areas to cool off.
Discovery of new habitats: Migrating animals discover new habitats, increasing genetic diversity and improving their ability to use resources in different ecosystems. This contributes to the adaptation and evolution process of the species.
Great migrations are important to ensure the survival of animals. Migration is a natural strategy to provide necessary resources and favorable conditions for animals. It also contributes to the maintenance of biodiversity and the provision of ecosystem services by playing an important role in the functioning of ecosystems.
There are various species among the creatures participating in the great migrations. Here are some examples:
Birds: Migratory birds travel long distances for feeding and breeding purposes during certain seasons. For example, many bird species migrate, such as storks, geese, ducks, gulls, and flamingos.
Fish: There are also migratory species among marine and freshwater fish. For example, species such as salmon, sea bass, dolphins and stingrays migrate to streams for breeding purposes.
Mammals: Some mammalian species also migrate. For example, species such as striped rats, antelopes, deer, zebras, and lemmings migrate in search of food or for breeding purposes.
Reptiles: Some reptile species also migrate, such as sea turtles, lizards, and snakes. While sea turtles migrate to beaches to lay their eggs, some species of lizards and snakes move in search of food or to stay unaffected by climatic conditions.
Insects: Some insect species, such as monarch butterflies, also make large migrations. Millions of butterflies migrate long distances to warmer regions during the winter.
These are just some examples, and the creatures participating in the great migrations can vary. The migratory behavior of different species is related to their feeding habits, reproductive cycles and climatic conditions.
