Animal migrations

Discover the secrets behind nature's greatest wonder

As the seasons are starting to change around the world, the animal kingdom is on the move. Creatures of all shapes and sizes, from humpback whales to butterflies, embark on epic journeys to find food, escape cold weather or find a mate. Animal migration is one of nature’s great wonders, but how do animals know when it’s time to set off on their journey, or where they need to go? Once they’ve worked out their destination, how do they know how to get there? Scientists have been puzzled by these questions for many years.

Embarking on an adventure

Migration is a behavioural pattern where animals travel from one habitat to another in search of something. It happens seasonally, and usually involves a return journey. These journeys can be by land, sea or air. One of the main reasons behind animal migration is the search for food. Animals like gazelles, wildebeests and zebras migrate in huge herds during dry seasons to look for fresh grass to eat and water to drink.