The Serengeti wildebeest migration: Ecology and conservation in a changing world

The Serengeti is an iconic ecosystem that is best known for the epic migration of over 1.2 million wildebeest plus 250,000 zebra and 200,000 gazelle - however it is unique. Large migrations of animals were once common in many parts of the world, but they have been collapsing globally. What makes the Serengeti so special? Why do we not see Serengeti type ecosystems everywhere? In this public lecture we will explore the underlying natural history that leads to the astounding diversity and abundance of animals in this ecosystem. We will reflect on years of ecological research and management decisions that have provided insights about how ecosystems work and what lessons the Serengeti has taught us.