South Sudan's 6 Million Antelope Migration Faces Rising Poaching Threat
South Sudan has revealed that an extensive aerial wildlife survey has identified the migration of approximately 6 million antelope as the world's largest land mammal migration. The survey, conducted last year by African Parks and the South Sudanese government, covered an area of about 46,000 square miles (120,000 square kilometers) and found numbers that far surpass the Serengeti's annual wildebeest migration.
This migration includes antelope species such as the white-eared kob, tiang, Mongalla gazelle, and bohor reedbuck, with the white-eared kob alone numbering around 5 million. The migration traverses from the Badingilo and Boma national parks in South Sudan to neighboring Ethiopia.
Despite this conservation success, poaching remains a significant threat due to commercial bushmeat trade and lack of law enforcement. South Sudan's wildlife ministry struggles with limited budget and resources, exacerbating the challenge. The country plans to use the migration as a cornerstone for sustainable tourism, although current infrastructure and security issues present obstacles.
South Sudan's president, Salva Kiir Mayardit, has stated the government's commitment to wildlife conservation, urging increased ranger training and anti-poaching measures. The survey documented declines in non-migratory species like elephants and hippos, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced protection efforts.
South Sudan's vast wildlife migration stands as a significant natural phenomenon, offering both conservation challenges and potential opportunities for the nation's development.
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