Animal migration has fascinated and captured the interest of humans for millennia. And for good reason: some of the most awe-inspiring feats of endurance are performed by long-distance migrants, making it one of the nature’s most visible and widespread phenomena and one of the greatest shows on Earth. Migration is a truly amazing aspect of animal ecology and is usually tied to seasonal changes in weather and feeding patterns, or else mating and breeding patterns. Do not forget that humans are not the only ones on the move and be awed by our list of planet’s greatest animal migrations of every size, from butterflies to elephants!
Butterfly Migration, Mexico
For nature lovers a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘El Rosario Butterfly Sanctuary’ is an absolute must. Located in Mexico’s state of Michoacan, this is a premier place to view hundreds of millions of monarch butterflies, which not being able to survive the cold of most of the United States, migrate more than 2,500 miles (on those amazing little wings) to a warmer climate to spend their winter hibernation. Monarchs are the most beautiful of all butterflies and are considered the ‘king’ of butterflies, hence their name. They arrive every fall in Mid-November and stay until mid-February; so be sure to plan your trip during this period.
This is a truly overwhelming experience, giving you the unique chance to witness a wonder of nature and be surrounded by these amazing creatures that are everywhere – in the sky, on every tree, on your shoulders and hands…
Red Crab Migration, Christmas Island
Another spectacular migration on Earth is that of red crab, occurring every year on the small Christmas Island – an Australian-owned territory located in the Indian Ocean. At the beginning of the wet season, usually between October and November, over 150 million adult red crabs scuttle from inland shelters to the shore to breed and release eggs into the sea. Red crabs are very important in the Christmas Island rainforest ecosystem, as their droppings scattered over the forest floor act as fertilizer.
Experiencing the annual red crab migration is an amazing sight. It is a slow-moving stampede and though the crabs are not aggressive, seeing a moving wave looking like a gigantic seafood smorgasbord is a bit terrifying. Visitors will find several signs announcing ‘Crabs cross here.’
Elephant Migration, Mali
Mali is a beautiful, landlocked desert country in North West Africa, renowned for its relatively small (hundreds rather than thousands) elephant population that must continually walk in search of drinking water. To view the trunk-to-tail marching of these huge lumbering beasts, you should head to Mali February through May. Prepare to pay from $402 for one person and be sure to keep a safe distance from them because the elephants in Mali are not accustomed to humans.
Sandhill Crane Migration, Nebraska
Sandhill Crane migration on the Platte River and nearby cornfields n Nebwaska is another must see wonder of nature sure to delight. An estimated 500,000 Sandhill Cranes head northward every year during the Annual spring and fall migrations. What better way to rejuvenate your soul and mind than with the amazing sights and sounds of such a crane spectacle. Experience and enjoy, creating unforgettable memories to remember forever.
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