South Sudan's 6 Million Antelope Create World's Largest Land Mammal Migration

In a groundbreaking discovery, an extensive aerial survey conducted in South Sudan has unveiled the world's largest land mammal migration, involving an astonishing 6 million antelope. The migration, spanning across Badingilo and Boma National Parks, is a spectacle of nature that conservationists describe as awe-inspiring. The survey, conducted over a two-week period last year, utilized spotters in airplanes, captured nearly 60,000 photos, and tracked over a hundred collared animals across a vast area of about 46,000 square miles. Despite the remarkable natural phenomenon, the wildlife in South Sudan faces significant threats due to years of flooding leading to crop failures, forcing some individuals to resort to hunting for food. Shockingly, an estimated 30,000 animals were being killed each month between March and May this year, highlighting the urgent need for wildlife protection measures. The government's lack of prioritization for wildlife conservation is evident, with less than 1% of the budget allocated to the wildlife ministry, resulting in challenges in safeguarding the animals over the expansive terrain. The ongoing violence and instability in South Sudan, stemming from years of civil war, have further compounded the challenges faced by wildlife conservation efforts. With millions of people displaced and reliant on humanitarian aid, the preservation of the natural habitat and wildlife becomes increasingly crucial. Despite the obstacles, African Parks is striving to balance the modernization of the country with the preservation of its wildlife, aiming to transform the wildlife sector into a sustainable tourism industry. However, the region's safety concerns, including tribal conflicts and attacks by gunmen, pose obstacles to the development of tourism. The remarkable discovery of the world's largest land mammal migration in South Sudan underscores the importance of conservation efforts in protecting the natural heritage of the region. As the country navigates its development path, the potential for sustainable tourism based on the wildlife spectacle presents an opportunity for economic growth and environmental preservation. With the commitment to safeguarding the ecosystems that support the migration, there is hope for securing the livelihoods of communities across the landscape and reshaping the global perception of South Sudan.