The African savanna is a vast and complex ecosystem where different animal species live in close proximity to each other. I find that one of the most fascinating relationships out here is the one between wildebeest and zebra. These two species are often found grazing together, and their relationship is more than just a coincidence. So why is it that we often find these two species together?
A group of wildebeest enjoys an early afternoon drink at one of the prominent waterholes on the reserve, while a few zebras approach the water more cautiously.
Diet
First and foremost, both wildebeest and zebra are herbivores that rely on grazing to survive. They have similar dietary requirements and preferences, which means they are often found grazing in the same areas. Wildebeest are known to prefer short grasses, while zebras prefer longer ones. This creates a mutually beneficial relationship between the two species, as they are able to share the same grazing grounds without competing for food.
An implausibility of wildebeest stands grazing in one of the open crests of Londolozi.
Furthermore, wildebeest and zebra have different feeding behaviours that complement each other. Zebras are bulk grazers and that consume large quantities of grass as they are not ruminants and require higher amounts of grass to meet their daily needs. Wildebeest, on the other hand, are more selective grazers, that prefer shorter grasses. This means that they will often feed on the shorter parts of the grass that the zebras have left behind. They do, however, become less selective in the drier months of the year when there is less nutritious grazing available except in areas of East Africa where they migrate to find new shoots of short-growing grasses.
Safety in Numbers
Another reason why wildebeest and zebra are always found together is their shared need for safety. The African savanna is home to many predators like lions, leopards, wild dogs, and hyenas. These predators are opportunistic and are always on the lookout for prey, and zebra and wildebeest are common targets, resulting in them having developed a symbiotic relationship where they are able to increase their chances of survival by staying together.
Herbivores will often congregate to help each other look out for danger. Here, a herd of zebra and giraffe keep a watchful eye on a cheetah walking through the clearing.
Zebras are known for their keen sense of sight and hearing, which makes them excellent sentinels. They are able to detect predators from far away and alert the herd with their loud braying calls. Conversely, wildebeest have a strong sense of smell that allows them to detect danger even before it is visible. Together, these two species are able to form a watchful and protective group that is more difficult for predators to attack.
In addition to safety, wildebeest and zebra also benefit from each other’s company in terms of socialisation. Both species are social animals that live in herds, and being part of a larger group provides many advantages. For instance, being part of a herd makes it easier to find mates, care for their young, and defend against predators. By grazing together and sharing the same social environment, wildebeest and zebra are able to form a larger and more robust community that is better equipped to face the challenges of life in the savanna.
Wild dogs will often try to split wildebeest calves from the rest of the herd so that the adults can’t protect them with their sharp horns.
Ecological Landscapers
Finally, wildebeest and zebra are also important to each other in terms of ecosystem function. As herbivores, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem by regulating the growth of grasses and other vegetation. This, in turn, affects the survival of other animal species that depend on the savanna for food and shelter. Wildebeest and zebra are particularly important in this regard because of their large numbers and the fact that they are both keystone species in the ecosystem.
A small group of zebra graze their way through the long grass as the sun begins to set.
In conclusion, wildebeest and zebra are often found together because of the many benefits they derive from each other’s company. From sharing grazing grounds to providing safety and socialisation, these two species have developed a close relationship vital to their survival in the African savanna. As we continue to learn more about the intricacies of this ecosystem, it is important to appreciate the important role that wildebeest and zebra play in maintaining their delicate balance.
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It is fascinating to witness the interaction of the many herds and groups of animals. Thanks for your insights Sean.
Thanks Barry for this article that validated my observations on these two species. Most of the time when driving through the savanna, you can see these animals together but grazing in different areas, and now that you highlighted their preferences in the grass they eat, it makes sense. The only other animal that might complete the scene is a few giraffes, if there are some trees around – that’s truly magical.
Thanks for this interesting blog, Barry, and the beautiful photos.
Great article. I never knew that their diets and senses complimented each other.
Very interesting post Barry! Thanks for highlighting the synergies between the wildebeest and zebra. Their differences are also their strengths, and complement each other in ways that are mutually beneficial!
Hi, this interesting blog digs into the relationship of the main characters of the Great Migration. I think it’s one of the most sought after natural show, although I don’t like to see so many animals dying, it is a natural process. Also in Botswana there’s a very old and long Migration of zebras, followed in some traits by wildebeest, that is not so famous but equally important. Those animals are such super resilient creatures, I strongly advise to watch both, in the second they reach the Boteti River after the attacks of lions, hyenas, wild dogs along all their route. The Jouberts documentary is an older one, but you will hold your breath until the last minute. Really awesome creatures
Ps on the wildebeest front, I’ve just seen again Survivor, a fantastic documentary film on a wildebeest calf and all the dangerous travel she and her mother endured. Those creature in herself is a real miracle, her mum is exceptional and she is such a character! Among all, she survives the Great Migration
Good foto’s thanks Barry and interesting to learn more about the herbivores habits. Not only do they eat the same food, but also look out for each other while browsing together. Safety in numbers.
Thanks for the great article.
Just a question, is this not the other way around? “Furthermore, wildebeest and zebra have different feeding behaviours that complement each other. Zebras are known for their selective grazing, where they are able to pick out the best and most nutritious grasses. Wildebeest, on the other hand, are bulk grazers that consume large quantities of grass indiscriminately. This means that they are able to graze on the tougher and less nutritious grasses that zebras may leave behind.”
Hi Jakes, you’re completely right I switched the two when writing. I’ve updated it to be a bit clearer.