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7. No, you absolutely cannot poke it.
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Renowned for its amazing annual migration—often spanning thousands of kilometers in search of fresh grazing areas—the wildebeest is a classic member of the African savanna. But given their coordinated calving season, this amazing trip becomes even more breathtaking. Over 500,000 calves produced in a concentrated "pulse" within a three-week span are thought to maximize their survival against opportunistic predators.
Wildebeest's gestation period is roughly 8.5 months, corresponding with the plenty of resources during the wet season. This timing is vital since it guarantees the infants have sufficient of food as they start to graze and the mothers have access to healthy grasses to help milk production. A stunning tribute to the resiliency of this species, the synchronized births provide a window into the complex dance between life and environmental stresses.
Usually born within 15 minutes, the birthing process itself is quite fast; calves can stand and run within another 15 minutes. Survival depends on this fast development since predators are fast to attack helpless babies. By means of predator satiation, the sheer volume of births during this period generates a survival advantage; just too many calves for predators to get them all.
Furthermore, the coordinated calving strengthens the bonds among the babies, who build "creches," or nursery groups. These groupings let mothers graze more effectively and give extra protection; they also let them watch over the young in turns. This group method to parenting highlights the intricate social systems found even in apparently chaotic herds.
