Animal Planet: Incredible Journeys

Transcript of Animal Planet: Incredible Journeys

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AMAZING ANIMAL MIGRATIONS

animalplanet.comanimalplanetbooks.com

Follow the amazing migration stories of creatures as diverse as the African wildebeest,

the American monarch butterfly, and the Pacific bluefin tuna.

Witness the perils of these amazing journeys.

Find out how animals navigate long distances with pinpoint accuracy.

Discover how migrating creatures survive the hardships they encounter along the way.

Learn how the scientists who track these amazing creatures uncover some of the natural worlds

most intriguing secrets.

$22.99 US / $26.99 CAN

About the author: Dwight Holing is a writer and editor whose books on the environment, natural history, and travel are published by University of California Press, Time-Life, Random House, and Chronicle Books. He is the author of many books on rainforests, coral reefs, and wilderness in Europe and western America.

Incredible JourneysCopyrighted Material
2 incredible Journeys 3ThemaTics


JourneysIncredible

Published in the United States by Kingfisher,175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010

Kingfisher is an imprint of Macmillan Childrens Books, London.All rights reserved.

Distributed in the U.S. by Macmillan,175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication data has been applied for.

Kingfisher books are available for special promotions and premiums. For details contact: Special Markets Department, Macmillan, 175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010.

For more information, please visit www.kingfisherbooks.com

Dwight Holing

Conceived and produced by Weldon Owen Pty Ltd 59-61 Victoria Street, McMahons Point Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia

Copyright 2011 Weldon Owen Pty Ltd First printed 2011

WELDON OWEN PTY LTD Managing Director Kay ScarlettPublisher Corinne Roberts Creative Director Sue Burk Senior Vice President, lnternational Sales Stuart Laurence Sales Manager, North America Ellen TowellAdministration Manager, International Sales Kristine Ravn

Managing Editor Averil MoffatDesigner John BullCartographer Will Pringle/MapgraphxImages Manager Trucie HendersonProduction Director Todd RechnerProduction and Prepress Controller Mike Crowton

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the permission of the copyright holder and publisher.

ISBN 978-0-7534-6726-8

Printed by Toppan Leefung Printing Limited Manufactured in China

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

The paper used in the manufacture of this book is sourced from wood grown in sustainable forests. It complies with the Environmental Management System Standard ISO 14001:2004

A WELDON OWEN PRODUCTION

2011 Discovery Communications, LLC. Animal Planet and the Animal Planet logoare trademarks of Discovery Communications, LLC, used under license. All rights reserved. animalplanet.comanimalplanetbooks.com

Copyrighted Material


JourneysIncredible

Published in the United States by Kingfisher,175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010

Kingfisher is an imprint of Macmillan Childrens Books, London.All rights reserved.

Distributed in the U.S. by Macmillan,175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication data has been applied for.

Kingfisher books are available for special promotions and premiums. For details contact: Special Markets Department, Macmillan, 175 Fifth Ave., New York, NY 10010.

For more information, please visit www.kingfisherbooks.com

Dwight Holing

Conceived and produced by Weldon Owen Pty Ltd 59-61 Victoria Street, McMahons Point Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia

Copyright 2011 Weldon Owen Pty Ltd First printed 2011

WELDON OWEN PTY LTD Managing Director Kay ScarlettPublisher Corinne Roberts Creative Director Sue Burk Senior Vice President, lnternational Sales Stuart Laurence Sales Manager, North America Ellen TowellAdministration Manager, International Sales Kristine Ravn

Managing Editor Averil MoffatDesigner John BullCartographer Will Pringle/MapgraphxImages Manager Trucie HendersonProduction Director Todd RechnerProduction and Prepress Controller Mike Crowton

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the permission of the copyright holder and publisher.

ISBN 978-0-7534-6726-8

Printed by Toppan Leefung Printing Limited Manufactured in China

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

The paper used in the manufacture of this book is sourced from wood grown in sustainable forests. It complies with the Environmental Management System Standard ISO 14001:2004

A WELDON OWEN PRODUCTION

2011 Discovery Communications, LLC. Animal Planet and the Animal Planet logoare trademarks of Discovery Communications, LLC, used under license. All rights reserved. animalplanet.comanimalplanetbooks.com


Journeys by Land 16African elephants 18Zebras 22Wildebeests 24Caribou 36Polar bears 40Emperor penguins 44Forest primates 46Mountain dwellers 48Scuttlers and sliders 51

Journeys by Air 54Flyways 56Seabirds 58Shorebirds 62Arctic terns 64Swallows 66Flamingos 70European white storks 72Cranes 74Songbirds 78Waterfowl 80Butterflies 84Bats 86Locusts 87

Journeys by Water 90Blue whales 92Gray whales 94Humpback whales 96Great white sharks 98Whale sharks 100Northern bluefin tuna 102Bottlenoses and relatives 106Salmon 108European eels 112Walrus 114Elephant seals 116Sea turtles 118Krill 120

Index 122Picture credits 126

Land 14 Air 52 Water 88

ContentsIntroduction 6

The migration story 8 Preparation and travel 10 Finding the way 12


Journeys by Land 16African elephants 18Zebras 22Wildebeests 24Caribou 36Polar bears 40Emperor penguins 44Forest primates 46Mountain dwellers 48Scuttlers and sliders 51

Journeys by Air 54Flyways 56Seabirds 58Shorebirds 62Arctic terns 64Swallows 66Flamingos 70European white storks 72Cranes 74Songbirds 78Waterfowl 80Butterflies 84Bats 86Locusts 87

Journeys by Water 90Blue whales 92Gray whales 94Humpback whales 96Great white sharks 98Whale sharks 100Northern bluefin tuna 102Bottlenoses and relatives 106Salmon 108European eels 112Walrus 114Elephant seals 116Sea turtles 118Krill 120

Index 122Picture credits 126

Land 14 Air 52 Water 88

ContentsIntroduction 6

The migration story 8 Preparation and travel 10 Finding the way 12


Earths seasons roll in an endless cycle, bringing winds, rain, heat, and chilling cold. Some lands dry out under fiercely hot temperatures; others are covered by deep snow. For the creatures of the animal kingdom, life is a constant challenge. In the air, through the water, and across land wild, wonderful, and intriguing animals are on the move. Their journeys in search of food, better weather, and a safe place to bear their young are called migrations. And the story of how they manage to find their way is amazing.

Incredible Journeys is filled with such stories. Meet a bird that flies from pole to pole and back againa yearly trip of nearly 50,000 miles (80,000 km). Follow a sea turtle hatchling so small, it would fit in your hand as it cracks out of its egg, scrambles across a beach, and catches a current that carries it across the ocean. See why a newborn caribou must hit the ground running if it is to keep up with its family and stay ahead of the wolves.

Come and explore a world where colorful birds and butterflies fill the sky, whales and sharks swim from sea to sea, and herds of huge African elephants march tirelessly across the savanna.

IntroductionCopyrighted Material

Earths seasons roll in an endless cycle, bringing winds, rain, heat, and chilling cold. Some lands dry out under fiercely hot temperatures; others are covered by deep snow. For the creatures of the animal kingdom, life is a constant challenge. In the air, through the water, and across land wild, wonderful, and intriguing animals are on the move. Their journeys in search of food, better weather, and a safe place to bear their young are called migrations. And the story of how they manage to find their way is amazing.

Incredible Journeys is filled with such stories. Meet a bird that flies from pole to pole and back againa yearly trip of nearly 50,000 miles (80,000 km). Follow a sea turtle hatchling so small, it would fit in your hand as it cracks out of its egg, scrambles across a beach, and catches a current that carries it across the ocean. See why a newborn caribou must hit the ground running if it is to keep up with its family and stay ahead of the wolves.

Come and explore a world where colorful birds and butterflies fill the sky, whales and sharks swim from sea to sea, and herds of huge African elephants march tirelessly across the savanna.

IntroductionCopyrighted Material
8 IncredIble Journeys 9the mIgratIon story

A search for foodFood supplies are affected by rainfall, plant-growth cycles, and the movements and breeding patterns of prey. This leads some animals to migrate more frequently, shifting from place to place as food sources increase and dwindle.

Escaping to warmer climatesWhere winter brings severe cold and reduced food supplies, animals may leave for warmer places in the fall and return in the spring. Migrations of this kind are common among highly mobile animals such as birds and marine mammals.

Whale of a trip After breeding through the winter in the warm Gulf of California waters, gray whales travel over 5,000miles (8,000km) tosummer feeding grounds off Alaska.

Partial migration Among some bird species, such as the European robin, somemembers of a groupmay stay in one place all year, while others migrate for the winter.

Ice flow Walrus follow the movements of the

Arctic pack ice, migrating north as the ice melts in the summer and

returning south as it reforms during the

coldermonths.

Ducking out Mallard ducks live all over the Northern Hemisphere. Those that breed in the far north migrate south for the winter.

Nomadic migrants In East Africa, huge herds of wildebeests (left) and smaller groups of impalas (right) are constantly on the move, following rains that bring growthtothe grasslands.

Year round and all over the world, animals of many kinds set out on remarkable seasonal journeys, ormigrations. They travelby air, water, and landto avoid cold, gather food, or find safe places to give birth to their young. Some, like these North American caribou, take weeks to trek vast distances, while others move swiftly to another habitat or breeding area. Exactly how animals know where and when to go is still something of a mystery.

The migration story

A search for waterNot many animals, especially land animals, can survive for long without water to drink. So it

,s not surprising

that shifting water supplies can prompt migrations, especially in arid zones and places with distinct dry and wet seasons.

A journey to breeding groundsTo reproduce successfully, animals need plenty of food as well as a secure place to bear and nurse their young. Many animals migrate to the same location every year for this purpose.

One-way tripsUsually migration is a round-trip, but sometimes there is no way back. One-way migrations may involve a permanent move to new territory or alast long journey prior to death.

In groups or aloneTraveling in a group can allow animals to hunt together or provide a measure of safety. However, some animals travel alone because they prefer not to share scarce food or, especially if small, are less likely to be spotted by predators.

Dry run In June, African elephants begin to migrate toward lakes and larger rivers that are less likely to dry out during the dry season, which usually lasts untilNovember.

Grasslands North American pronghorns migrate up to 150 miles (240 km) to find snow-free grasses to eat during the winter. They use long grasses to conceal newborns from predators.

Back again Twice a year, southern elephant seals migrate north from their hunting grounds off Antarctica to subantarctic islands, once to breed pups like this one and once to shed skin.

Arctic nursery In the summer, caribou travel north by the thousands to calving grounds on the Arctic tundra. The plants that grow here help the mothers produce rich milk that makes baby calves grow.

Home run After spending their adult life at sea, Pacific salmon return to the river where they were born to spawn and die.

Long march Native to tropical South America, army ants migrate many times a year in search of food. Marching in columns as long as a soccer field, they devour any small creatures in their path.

Solitary creatures Regional populations of blue whales migrate to and from the same summer and winter grounds. However, theynormally travel alone or in pairs.

Mass exodus If a lemming colony grows

too crowded, a large group may migrate in

search ofnew territory.


A search for foodFood supplies are affected by rainfall, plant-growth cycles, and the movements and breeding patterns of prey. This leads some animals to migrate more frequently, shifting from place to place as food sources increase and dwindle.

Escaping to warmer climatesWhere winter brings severe cold and reduced food supplies, animals may leave for warmer places in the fall and return in the spring. Migrations of this kind are common among highly mobile animals such as birds and marine mammals.

Whale of a trip After breeding through the winter in the warm Gulf of California waters, gray whales travel over 5,000miles (8,000km) tosummer feeding grounds off Alaska.

Partial migration Among some bird species, such as the European robin, somemembers of a groupmay stay in one place all year, while others migrate for the winter.

Ice flow Walrus follow the movements of the

Arctic pack ice, migrating north as the ice melts in the summer and

returning south as it reforms during the

coldermonths.

Ducking out Mallard ducks live all over the Northern Hemisphere. Those that breed in the far north migrate south for the winter.

Nomadic migrants In East Africa, huge herds of wildebeests (left) and smaller groups of impalas (right) are constantly on the move, following rains that bring growthtothe grasslands.

Year round and all over the world, animals of many kinds set out on remarkable seasonal journeys, ormigrations. They travelby air, water, and landto avoid cold, gather food, or find safe places to give birth to their young. Some, like these North American caribou, take weeks to trek vast distances, while others move swiftly to another habitat or breeding area. Exactly how animals know where and when to go is still something of a mystery.

The migration story

A search for waterNot many animals, especially land animals, can survive for long without water to drink. So it

,s not surprising

that shifting water supplies can prompt migrations, especially in arid zones and places with distinct dry and wet seasons.

A journey to breeding groundsTo reproduce successfully, animals need plenty of food as well as a secure place to bear and nurse their young. Many animals migrate to the same location every year for this purpose.

One-way tripsUsually migration is a round-trip, but sometimes there is no way back. One-way migrations may involve a permanent move to new territory or alast long journey prior to death.

In groups or aloneTraveling in a group can allow animals to hunt together or provide a measure of safety. However, some animals travel alone because they prefer not to share scarce food or, especially if small, are less likely to be spotted by predators.

Dry run In June, African elephants begin to migrate toward lakes and larger rivers that are less likely to dry out during the dry season, which usually lasts untilNovember.

Grasslands North American pronghorns migrate up to 150 miles (240 km) to find snow-free grasses to eat during the winter. They use long grasses to conceal newborns from predators.

Back again Twice a year, southern elephant seals migrate north from their hunting grounds off Antarctica to subantarctic islands, once to breed pups like this one and once to shed skin.

Arctic nursery In the summer, caribou travel north by the thousands to calving grounds on the Arctic tundra. The plants that grow here help the mothers produce rich milk that makes baby calves grow.

Home run After spending their adult life at sea, Pacific salmon return to the river where they were born to spawn and die.

Long march Native to tropical South America, army ants migrate many times a year in search of food. Marching in columns as long as a soccer field, they devour any small creatures in their path.

Solitary creatures Regional populations of blue whales migrate to and from the same summer and winter grounds. However, theynormally travel alone or in pairs.

Mass exodus If a lemming colony grows

too crowded, a large group may migrate in

search ofnew territory.


New York

Los Angeles

N O R T H

A M E R I C A

10 IncredIble Journeys

migrating to another habitat can be a risky business. The way may be long and filled with danger. Animals have to prepare themselves well and follow a route that will take them to their destination as swiftly, easily, and safely as possible. Prior to departure, most creatures, like these gray whales exercising in Baja California, spend time building up their strength. Once on their way, they may travel nonstop or stop to rest, eat, and drink along the way. While many migrants travel by day, others journey at night to avoid their predators.

Preparation and travel

Routes and timingThe routes followed by migrating animals may be determined by the terrain, the availability of food, and the climate. Timing a journey is critical, as even a short delay may mean missing a helpful tide or running into bad weather.

Well armed In response to overcrowding, locusts develop longer wings and prepare to migrate. They fly in huge swarms that may contain billionsof insects.

Getting readyMost animals gorge before departure to increase their energy reserves, and many exercise intensively to strengthen particular muscles. Some can even reduce the size of their internal organs to make them lighter for the trip.

Fueling up Before they set off, migrants such as snow geese (far left) and hummingbirds (left) increase their body fat, the most efficient form of energy storage.

Flying high White storks must travel by day because they rely on rising air currents, or thermals, to carry them from Europe to their winter grounds in Africa.

Pit stops Mountain meadows (below) and barrier islands (below right) provide migrants with places to feed and rest. Often, the same locations are visited on every trip.

PredatorsWell aware of the comings and goings of the animals they feed on, predators often gather along migration routes to feast on prey. Some rely on a greatly increased intake of food at such times to prepare for their own breeding cycles.

Short and long tripsThe distances covered by different animals during migration vary hugely. However, even the shortest trips can involve surmounting major obstacles, while, on the other hand, some epic journeys maybe plain sailing.

Go with the flowAnimals use natural forces to help them travel faster and farther. Many winged creatures catch a lift on prevailing winds, while fish and sea mammals hitch a ride on tides and powerful ocean currents.

Record makers

On the wing Resident on Mediterranean islands, Eleonora's falcons delay nesting to hunt migrating songbirds, catching them in midair.

Feeding frenzy Between May and July each year, thousands of dolphins gather to feed on giant schools of sardines migrating north along the coast of South Africa.

Sea way Humpback whales swim more than 8,000miles (13,000 km) from their high-latitude

summer waters to tropical breeding zones.

Mad dash On Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean, millions of red crabs migrate a short distance to the seashore to lay eggs. They swarm through forests and across roads to get there.

Massive mover Weighing up to 7 tons (6.4 t) and standing up to 13 feet (4 m) tall, the African elephant is the largest land migrant.

Riding the breeze Using their long wings to harness air currents, albatross can soar

for vast distances using little energy.Conveyor belt Turtles use Atlantic Ocean currents to carry them smoothly between far-flung feeding and nesting sites.

Species Statistics

Longestround-trip Arctic tern 49,700 mi. (80,000 km)

Longestlandtrip Caribou 3,700 mi. (6,000 km) a year

Longestinsecttrip Monarch butterfly 3,000 mi. (4,800 km) in fall

Largestmigrant Blue whale Up to 110 ft. (33.5 m) long

Smallestmigrant Zooplankton 0.040.08 in. (12 mm)

Fastesttraveler Common eider duck Average speed 47 mph (75 km/h)

Highesttraveler Bar-headed goose Up to 33,000 ft. (10,000 m)

Wind power Monarch butterflies rely on fall winds to carry them south to Mexico and spring winds to return them to the southern United States.


New York

Los Angeles

N O R T H

A M E R I C A

10 IncredIble Journeys

migrating to another habitat can be a risky business. The way may be long and filled with danger. Animals have to prepare themselves well and follow a route that will take them to their destination as swiftly, easily, and safely as possible. Prior to departure, most creatures, like these gray whales exercising in Baja California, spend time building up their strength. Once on their way, they may travel nonstop or stop to rest, eat, and drink along the way. While many migrants travel by day, others journey at night to avoid their predators.

Preparation and travel

Routes and timingThe routes followed by migrating animals may be determined by the terrain, the availability of food, and the climate. Timing a journey is critical, as even a short delay may mean missing a helpful tide or running into bad weather.

Well armed In response to overcrowding, locusts develop longer wings and prepare to migrate. They fly in huge swarms that may contain billionsof insects.

Getting readyMost animals gorge before departure to increase their energy reserves, and many exercise intensively to strengthen particular muscles. Some can even reduce the size of their internal organs to make them lighter for the trip.

Fueling up Before they set off, migrants such as snow geese (far left) and hummingbirds (left) increase their body fat, the most efficient form of energy storage.

Flying high White storks must travel by day because they rely on rising air currents, or thermals, to carry them from Europe to their winter grounds in Africa.

Pit stops Mountain meadows (below) and barrier islands (below right) provide migrants with places to feed and rest. Often, the same locations are visited on every trip.

PredatorsWell aware of the comings and goings of the animals they feed on, predators often gather along migration routes to feast on prey. Some rely on a greatly increased intake of food at such times to prepare for their own breeding cycles.

Short and long tripsThe distances covered by different animals during migration vary hugely. However, even the shortest trips can involve surmounting major obstacles, while, on the other hand, some epic journeys maybe plain sailing.

Go with the flowAnimals use natural forces to help them travel faster and farther. Many winged creatures catch a lift on prevailing winds, while fish and sea mammals hitch a ride on tides and powerful ocean currents.

Record makers

On the wing Resident on Mediterranean islands, Eleonora's falcons delay nesting to hunt migrating songbirds, catching them in midair.

Feeding frenzy Between May and July each year, thousands of dolphins gather to feed on giant schools of sardines migrating north along the coast of South Africa.

Sea way Humpback whales swim more than 8,000miles (13,000 km) from their high-latitude

summer waters to tropical breeding zones.

Mad dash On Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean, millions of red crabs migrate a short distance to the seashore to lay eggs. They swarm through forests and across roads to get there.

Massive mover Weighing up to 7 tons (6.4 t) and standing up to 13 feet (4 m) tall, the African elephant is the largest land migrant.

Riding the breeze Using their long wings to harness air currents, albatross can soar

for vast distances using little energy.Conveyor belt Turtles use Atlantic Ocean currents to carry them smoothly between far-flung feeding and nesting sites.

Species Statistics

Longestround-trip Arctic tern 49,700 mi. (80,000 km)

Longestlandtrip Caribou 3,700 mi. (6,000 km) a year

Longestinsecttrip Monarch butterfly 3,000 mi. (4,800 km) in fall

Largestmigrant Blue whale Up to 110 ft. (33.5 m) long

Smallestmigrant Zooplankton 0.040.08 in. (12 mm)

Fastesttraveler Common eider duck Average speed 47 mph (75 km/h)

Highesttraveler Bar-headed goose Up to 33,000 ft. (10,000 m)

Wind power Monarch butterflies rely on fall winds to carry them south to Mexico and spring winds to return them to the southern United States.


! SLOWLY PLEASE !WILDLIFE HASRIGHT OF WAY

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Sumatra

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Super sensesAnimals have special senses that help them migrate successfully. Most have a built-in chronometer or timepiece that tells them when to depart, and some have specialized navigation tools.

Screen scene Radar allows scientists to follow flocks of birds as they migrate. The radar screen above shows a snow geese flock near Winnipeg in Canada.

Sound map Whales send out sounds and use the echoes that bounce back to map out what lies ahead. This process is called echolocation.

Ocean obstacles Just like land, the seabed is covered with hills, ridges, peaks, and valleys. Sea creatures must navigate through these landforms, often in pitch darkness.

SignpostsAt night, animals may use magnetism or the stars to navigate. By day, some, such as ants and starlings, are guided by the position of the sun. But mosttake a simpler approach and use familiar landmarksmountains, rivers, lakes, and so onto tell them where to head, when to turn, and where to stop.

The human factorHuman activities interfere with animal migration. Land clearance removes vital habitats. Roads, fences, and pipelines block routes. But now people worldwide are learning more about animal migration and are helping in many ways.

Animal magnetism A magnetic field surrounds our planet. This is the force that causes a compass to point to the North Pole. Scientists say some animals, including birds, bats, butterflies, and turtles, have a built-in magentic compass. They use it to detect Earth's magnetism and guide them on their way.

Compass points Tests have shown that snow buntings sense Earth,s magnetic field and use it as their main means of navigation.

Shore guides Coastlines are long, recognizable landforms that can guide animals on their journey. Many birds migrate along coasts, and some whales stay close to them when traveling between their winter and summer ranges.

River routes Rivers form pathways through landscapes. Migrating birds and bats follow them as do the creatures that live in their waters.

Landforms Birds often migrate along mountain chains. Valleys can provide clear corridors, and distinctive peaks indicate when to change direction.

In touch Tracking devices like the radio transmitter on this elk allow researchers to map migration routes and work out how best to protect them.

Loss of trees Clearing forests for timber or farms robs animals of a safe place to live or a suitable place to rest during long migration journeys.

Watch out Road signs are used to alert drivers to wildlife along many migration paths.

In the way Collisions with power lines, towers, and tall office buildings are thought to kill tens of millions of migratory birds every year.

Finding the wayAnimals can navigate over immense distances, often in complete darkness or the absence of landmarks, and, in some cases, even when they have never made the journey before. By tracking migrants using radar and other technologies, modern researchers have shown that animals adopt a variety of methods to find their way. These range from observing the sun, stars, and wind patterns to sensing and following Earth,s magnetic fields.


! SLOWLY PLEASE !WILDLIFE HASRIGHT OF WAY

Java T

r e nc h

J a v a S e a

Indi a

n O

c e a n

Java

Sumatra

Bali

BorneoSurabaya

N

Super sensesAnimals have special senses that help them migrate successfully. Most have a built-in chronometer or timepiece that tells them when to depart, and some have specialized navigation tools.

Screen scene Radar allows scientists to follow flocks of birds as they migrate. The radar screen above shows a snow geese flock near Winnipeg in Canada.

Sound map Whales send out sounds and use the echoes that bounce back to map out what lies ahead. This process is called echolocation.

Ocean obstacles Just like land, the seabed is covered with hills, ridges, peaks, and valleys. Sea creatures must navigate through these landforms, often in pitch darkness.

SignpostsAt night, animals may use magnetism or the stars to navigate. By day, some, such as ants and starlings, are guided by the position of the sun. But mosttake a simpler approach and use familiar landmarksmountains, rivers, lakes, and so onto tell them where to head, when to turn, and where to stop.

The human factorHuman activities interfere with animal migration. Land clearance removes vital habitats. Roads, fences, and pipelines block routes. But now people worldwide are learning more about animal migration and are helping in many ways.

Animal magnetism A magnetic field surrounds our planet. This is the force that causes a compass to point to the North Pole. Scientists say some animals, including birds, bats, butterflies, and turtles, have a built-in magentic compass. They use it to detect Earth's magnetism and guide them on their way.

Compass points Tests have shown that snow buntings sense Earth,s magnetic field and use it as their main means of navigation.

Shore guides Coastlines are long, recognizable landforms that can guide animals on their journey. Many birds migrate along coasts, and some whales stay close to them when traveling between their winter and summer ranges.

River routes Rivers form pathways through landscapes. Migrating birds and bats follow them as do the creatures that live in their waters.

Landforms Birds often migrate along mountain chains. Valleys can provide clear corridors, and distinctive peaks indicate when to change direction.

In touch Tracking devices like the radio transmitter on this elk allow researchers to map migration routes and work out how best to protect them.

Loss of trees Clearing forests for timber or farms robs animals of a safe place to live or a suitable place to rest during long migration journeys.

Watch out Road signs are used to alert drivers to wildlife along many migration paths.

In the way Collisions with power lines, towers, and tall office buildings are thought to kill tens of millions of migratory birds every year.

Finding the wayAnimals can navigate over immense distances, often in complete darkness or the absence of landmarks, and, in some cases, even when they have never made the journey before. By tracking migrants using radar and other technologies, modern researchers have shown that animals adopt a variety of methods to find their way. These range from observing the sun, stars, and wind patterns to sensing and following Earth,s magnetic fields.

14 IncredIble Journeys 15Journeys by land

Land


Land


On the move Animals migrate over land in search of food, water, mates, and a safe place to rear their young. The change from dry to rainy season forces herd animals like the zebra in Africa and the pronghorn in North America to be on the move constantly as they search for grass. Each year the elephants in Mali, Africa must trudge 300 miles (482 km) from water hole to water hole.

Varied journeys Migrations are as varied as the species that make them. Some are as short as the week it takes a red crab to scuttle 5 miles (8 km) across Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean to hatch its eggs. Wildebeests travel clockwise on a roughly circular journey 1,800 miles (2,900 km) long on the Serengeti Plain in Kenya and Tanzania, Africa.

Great risks Unlike migrations through air and water, land animals cannot rely on help from currents. They must make the journey step by step. Though land animals journeys are often shorter than those made by birds and fish, the risks can be higher. Rough terrain, extreme temperatures, and dangerous predators abound. Cheetahs and lions lay in wait for passing herd animals, targeting the young and weak.

Some land animals trek as far as 3,700 miles (6,000 km) a year.

Journeys by Landanimals Of saVanna, tundra, and fOrest The epic journeys of land animals make a spectacular sight. Wave after wave of wildebeest herds roll across a sea of grass in Africa. Caribou surge over Alaskas tundra in one continuous stream. Monkeys swing from tree to tree. Through deserts and forests, over mountains and across poles, migrating animals are always on the march.


On the move Animals migrate over land in search of food, water, mates, and a safe place to rear their young. The change from dry to rainy season forces herd animals like the zebra in Africa and the pronghorn in North America to be on the move constantly as they search for grass. Each year the elephants in Mali, Africa must trudge 300 miles (482 km) from water hole to water hole.

Varied journeys Migrations are as varied as the species that make them. Some are as short as the week it takes a red crab to scuttle 5 miles (8 km) across Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean to hatch its eggs. Wildebeests travel clockwise on a roughly circular journey 1,800 miles (2,900 km) long on the Serengeti Plain in Kenya and Tanzania, Africa.

Great risks Unlike migrations through air and water, land animals cannot rely on help from currents. They must make the journey step by step. Though land animals journeys are often shorter than those made by birds and fish, the risks can be higher. Rough terrain, extreme temperatures, and dangerous predators abound. Cheetahs and lions lay in wait for passing herd animals, targeting the young and weak.

Some land animals trek as far as 3,700 miles (6,000 km) a year.

Journeys by Landanimals Of saVanna, tundra, and fOrest The epic journeys of land animals make a spectacular sight. Wave after wave of wildebeest herds roll across a sea of grass in Africa. Caribou surge over Alaskas tundra in one continuous stream. Monkeys swing from tree to tree. Through deserts and forests, over mountains and across poles, migrating animals are always on the march.


across africaElephants are found in a wide area of Africa. Three large migrating herds move through parts of Tanzania and Kenya, Mali, and Zambia and Botswana.

A t l a n t i c

O c e a n

I n d i a nO c e a n

Nile

Cong

o

Cape Town

Cairo

A F R I C A

Equator

Elephant distributionLarge herds migrate seasonally

Among the oldest and largest animal species still to walk the planet, African elephants are on a constant search for food and water. They eat on average 500 pounds (226 kg) of plants and drink 50 gallons (190 l) of water a day. To find it all, elephants must make long journeys across the continent as the dry and rainy seasons change.

African elephantsFamilies on the move

Skinthick and sensitive While its rubbery skin is as much as 1 inch (2.55 cm) thick in some places, an elephant can feel a fly land on it.

Trunkstrong and nimble Both an upper lip and nose, the trunk has 40,000 muscles and can push down a tree or pluck a blade of grass.

Feet large and silent With tough but spongy soles that act like shock absorbers, elephants walk over all types of ground.

MigrationElephant herds are close-knit families led by one of the oldest and strongest females. Like a historian, she holds a mental map in her head about where the water holes, food supplies, and dangers lie in their home range, which can measure up to 750 square miles (2,000 km2). Some herds travel as far as 300 miles (480 km) a year.

Equipped for survivalThe elephant has special features that help it survive as it migrates. Its massive size protects it from all but a couple of predatorslions and crocodiles. Both males and females have tusks, which are actually large, modified teeth used for fighting, feeding, and digging. Elephants have a strong sense of hearing and can communicate with each other at distances of up to 6 miles (10 km) away. A baby elephant can walk two hours after birth.

females and calves Herds are made up of females and their young. Sometimes several herds join together and can number 100 individuals.

Mating season Calving season

Anytime 22 months later

polar bear

african elephantcaribou

emperor penguin polar bear


emperor penguin

polar bear

african elephant caribou

emperor penguin

Type MammalFamily ElephantidaeScientific name Loxodonta africanaDiet Herbivore, prefers grasses and leavesAverage lifespan 70 years

African elephant fact file

Weight 13,00020,000 lb. (6,0009,000 kg)Size Up to 24 ft. (7.3 m) in length

polar bear


emperor penguin


across africaElephants are found in a wide area of Africa. Three large migrating herds move through parts of Tanzania and Kenya, Mali, and Zambia and Botswana.

A t l a n t i c

O c e a n

I n d i a nO c e a n

Nile

Cong

o

Cape Town

Cairo

A F R I C A

Equator

Elephant distributionLarge herds migrate seasonally

Among the oldest and largest animal species still to walk the planet, African elephants are on a constant search for food and water. They eat on average 500 pounds (226 kg) of plants and drink 50 gallons (190 l) of water a day. To find it all, elephants must make long journeys across the continent as the dry and rainy seasons change.

African elephantsFamilies on the move

Skinthick and sensitive While its rubbery skin is as much as 1 inch (2.55 cm) thick in some places, an elephant can feel a fly land on it.

Trunkstrong and nimble Both an upper lip and nose, the trunk has 40,000 muscles and can push down a tree or pluck a blade of grass.

Feet large and silent With tough but spongy soles that act like shock absorbers, elephants walk over all types of ground.

MigrationElephant herds are close-knit families led by one of the oldest and strongest females. Like a historian, she holds a mental map in her head about where the water holes, food supplies, and dangers lie in their home range, which can measure up to 750 square miles (2,000 km2). Some herds travel as far as 300 miles (480 km) a year.

Equipped for survivalThe elephant has special features that help it survive as it migrates. Its massive size protects it from all but a couple of predatorslions and crocodiles. Both males and females have tusks, which are actually large, modified teeth used for fighting, feeding, and digging. Elephants have a strong sense of hearing and can communicate with each other at distances of up to 6 miles (10 km) away. A baby elephant can walk two hours after birth.

females and calves Herds are made up of females and their young. Sometimes several herds join together and can number 100 individuals.


Anytime 22 months later

polar bear




emperor penguin

polar bear


emperor penguin

Type MammalFamily ElephantidaeScientific name Loxodonta africanaDiet Herbivore, prefers grasses and leavesAverage lifespan 70 years

African elephant fact file

Weight 13,00020,000 lb. (6,0009,000 kg)Size Up to 24 ft. (7.3 m) in length

polar bear


emperor penguin


Family units made up of mature females and the young will break away from the larger herds and begin the trek. By traveling in smaller groups, they have a better chance of finding enough food and water along the route. A group is always led by the strongest and most experienced female. They walk in single file. Another dominant female brings up the rear. Her job is to supervise the young and guard against predators. Bull males also migrate, but alone and at their own pace. Calves born along the way are on their feet and joining the march within a few hours of birth. When the rains return, usually from October to December and March to June, the herds return to their native regions to feed on newly grown vegetation.

the search fOr fOOd and water African elephants have large brains that serve like a GPS on the dashboard of a car. They store enormous amounts of information about routes from water hole to water hole and the feeding grounds between. Life is an endless loop of survival for elephants.

reduced range Once elephants roamed across most of Africa. Today, their range and numbers are much smaller. Human population growth, poaching, habitat destruction, and changing climate are among the reasons why. The total population is estimated to be between 400,000 and 660,000. This includes two different species of African elephants. The most numerous and better-known kind dwells in grassland areas called savannas in the eastern and southern regions. The other type lives in the forests of western and central Africa. Both species migrate.

timing Migration usually begins at the start of the dry season. For savanna elephants that means June.

Elephants can find distant water holes with pinpoint accuracy; it is key to their survival.

To the water hole


Family units made up of mature females and the young will break away from the larger herds and begin the trek. By traveling in smaller groups, they have a better chance of finding enough food and water along the route. A group is always led by the strongest and most experienced female. They walk in single file. Another dominant female brings up the rear. Her job is to supervise the young and guard against predators. Bull males also migrate, but alone and at their own pace. Calves born along the way are on their feet and joining the march within a few hours of birth. When the rains return, usually from October to December and March to June, the herds return to their native regions to feed on newly grown vegetation.

the search fOr fOOd and water African elephants have large brains that serve like a GPS on the dashboard of a car. They store enormous amounts of information about routes from water hole to water hole and the feeding grounds between. Life is an endless loop of survival for elephants.

reduced range Once elephants roamed across most of Africa. Today, their range and numbers are much smaller. Human population growth, poaching, habitat destruction, and changing climate are among the reasons why. The total population is estimated to be between 400,000 and 660,000. This includes two different species of African elephants. The most numerous and better-known kind dwells in grassland areas called savannas in the eastern and southern regions. The other type lives in the forests of western and central Africa. Both species migrate.

timing Migration usually begins at the start of the dry season. For savanna elephants that means June.

Elephants can find distant water holes with pinpoint accuracy; it is key to their survival.

To the water hole

25Journeys by land24 IncredIble Journeys

Skull The skull is heavy enough to withstand head-to-head battles.

Body shape A short backbone and long legs allow the wildebeest to run fast to escape predators.

Heavy horns The horns are used to fight off predators and in battles between males during the mating season.

Tail The shaggy tail keeps flies away.

Built for survivalLike all grazing animals, wildebeests must be constantly on the alert for predators. The wildebeest is one of the larger antelopes. It has a very powerful body but can still fall prey to lions, crocodiles, and other hunters. Its eyes are at the sides of the head, giving the animal a wide field of vision. Its senses of hearing and smell are also very acute, helping it detect danger at night when many predators are active.

Wildebeests

30 secondsA new wildebeest is born . . .Moments after the birth, the mother licks her calf clean. In doing so, she learns its appearance and smell, which helps her develop a strong bond with her baby. The calf must get to its feet quickly, because it is vulnerable to lions and hyenas.

3 minutesIt struggles to get up . . .The calf has to be walking within 10 minutes to have a good chance of survival. It pushes itself up on its back legs, then follows with its front legs. The mother stands guard and gently nudges her calf to encourage it.

6 minutes And takes its first stepsAt only six minutes old, the calf is trotting beside its mother. It gains strength rapidly from its mothers milk, which is much richer than cows milk. Within a day, the youngster will be running with the herd.

Heavily built The front end of the wildebeests body combines with small and thin hindquarters.

Legs Long legs give a wide stride for trekking and deliver sudden rushes of speed to escape danger.

Muscles Unlike domestic cattle, wildebeests have slim bodies packed with

powerful muscles.

MigrationDuring the wet season, the wildebeest herds feed in the southeast of the savanna region. Most calves are born here. As the dry season approaches, they travel north and west to find fresh grass and water. During October and November the cycle starts again and the wildebeests begin the long trek south.


Oct.Nov. MayJune

Mouth and nose The mouth can harvest big mouthfuls of grass. Flaps of skin stop dirt kicked up by the herd from entering the nostrils.

Glands The front hooves contain glands that produce a smelly oil. Other wildebeests follow the trail it leaves.

The hooves Each hoof is split into two toes. They have

a tough, hard covering.

HerdingFemale wildebeests and their young gather in herds of as many as 1,000 animals. Males leave their home herd when they mature and join a group of other males. But when it is time to migrate, wildebeests gather in vast herds of many thousands of animals to thunder across the plains of East Africa in search of food and water.

Young calf A young calf runs at the center of the herd where it is safe from predators such as big cats.

Wildebeests, also called gnu, belong to a family of hoofed mammals called antelopes. They resemble bulls, but have the shaggy manes and elegant legs of horses. Powerful and with incredible stamina, they are superb sprinters and can cover great distances. They live in the African savanna spanning Tanzania and Kenya, traveling north in the dry season and back south when rain returns to the savanna.

Type MammalFamily BovidaeScientific name Connochaetes taurinusDiet Herbivore, preferring short grassAverage lifespan 20 years

Wildebeest fact file

Weight 265550 lb. (120250 kg)Size Up to 4.5 ft. (1.4 m)

polar bear


emperor penguin

Across the plains


Skull The skull is heavy enough to withstand head-to-head battles.

Body shape A short backbone and long legs allow the wildebeest to run fast to escape predators.

Heavy horns The horns are used to fight off predators and in battles between males during the mating season.

Tail The shaggy tail keeps flies away.

Built for survivalLike all grazing animals, wildebeests must be constantly on the alert for predators. The wildebeest is one of the larger antelopes. It has a very powerful body but can still fall prey to lions, crocodiles, and other hunters. Its eyes are at the sides of the head, giving the animal a wide field of vision. Its senses of hearing and smell are also very acute, helping it detect danger at night when many predators are active.

Wildebeests

30 secondsA new wildebeest is born . . .Moments after the birth, the mother licks her calf clean. In doing so, she learns its appearance and smell, which helps her develop a strong bond with her baby. The calf must get to its feet quickly, because it is vulnerable to lions and hyenas.

3 minutesIt struggles to get up . . .The calf has to be walking within 10 minutes to have a good chance of survival. It pushes itself up on its back legs, then follows with its front legs. The mother stands guard and gently nudges her calf to encourage it.

6 minutes And takes its first stepsAt only six minutes old, the calf is trotting beside its mother. It gains strength rapidly from its mothers milk, which is much richer than cows milk. Within a day, the youngster will be running with the herd.

Heavily built The front end of the wildebeests body combines with small and thin hindquarters.

Legs Long legs give a wide stride for trekking and deliver sudden rushes of speed to escape danger.

Muscles Unlike domestic cattle, wildebeests have slim bodies packed with

powerful muscles.

MigrationDuring the wet season, the wildebeest herds feed in the southeast of the savanna region. Most calves are born here. As the dry season approaches, they travel north and west to find fresh grass and water. During October and November the cycle starts again and the wildebeests begin the long trek south.


Oct.Nov. MayJune

Mouth and nose The mouth can harvest big mouthfuls of grass. Flaps of skin stop dirt kicked up by the herd from entering the nostrils.

Glands The front hooves contain glands that produce a smelly oil. Other wildebeests follow the trail it leaves.

The hooves Each hoof is split into two toes. They have

a tough, hard covering.

HerdingFemale wildebeests and their young gather in herds of as many as 1,000 animals. Males leave their home herd when they mature and join a group of other males. But when it is time to migrate, wildebeests gather in vast herds of many thousands of animals to thunder across the plains of East Africa in search of food and water.

Young calf A young calf runs at the center of the herd where it is safe from predators such as big cats.

Wildebeests, also called gnu, belong to a family of hoofed mammals called antelopes. They resemble bulls, but have the shaggy manes and elegant legs of horses. Powerful and with incredible stamina, they are superb sprinters and can cover great distances. They live in the African savanna spanning Tanzania and Kenya, traveling north in the dry season and back south when rain returns to the savanna.

Type MammalFamily BovidaeScientific name Connochaetes taurinusDiet Herbivore, preferring short grassAverage lifespan 20 years

Wildebeest fact file

Weight 265550 lb. (120250 kg)Size Up to 4.5 ft. (1.4 m)

polar bear


emperor penguin

Across the plains


Unseen hazards Bull sharks swim far upstream in the Mara River to prey on migrating wildebeests.

Wildebeest migration is a grueling race to survive.Long and dangerous trek

Lion attack Once a wildebeest grows tired it is no match for the king of the savanna.

DUst, fLies, Lions, anD crocoDiLes These are just a few of the challenges wildebeests must overcome on their incredible journey. Their trek of some 1,800 miles (2,900 km) through East Africa holds peril at every turn. Of the 1.5 million wildebeests that begin, one out of four will die. Cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas are always on the prowl, waiting for the weak and young to fall behind. Crossing rivers like the Mara means dodging bull sharks as well as crocodiles.

on the move Life for wildebeests is a never-ending journey. They are constantly on the move, and constantly watching out for danger, as they follow the rains in a clockwise circle across the savanna. For a creature that looks far from streamlined, the wildebeest can run remarkably fast. It can reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). Moving swiftly and blending in with the herd gives an individual its best chance to survive. The dung dropped by the wildebeests serves as fertilizer that helps the next season of grass to grow.


Unseen hazards Bull sharks swim far upstream in the Mara River to prey on migrating wildebeests.

Wildebeest migration is a grueling race to survive.Long and dangerous trek

Lion attack Once a wildebeest grows tired it is no match for the king of the savanna.

DUst, fLies, Lions, anD crocoDiLes These are just a few of the challenges wildebeests must overcome on their incredible journey. Their trek of some 1,800 miles (2,900 km) through East Africa holds peril at every turn. Of the 1.5 million wildebeests that begin, one out of four will die. Cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas are always on the prowl, waiting for the weak and young to fall behind. Crossing rivers like the Mara means dodging bull sharks as well as crocodiles.

on the move Life for wildebeests is a never-ending journey. They are constantly on the move, and constantly watching out for danger, as they follow the rains in a clockwise circle across the savanna. For a creature that looks far from streamlined, the wildebeest can run remarkably fast. It can reach speeds up to 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). Moving swiftly and blending in with the herd gives an individual its best chance to survive. The dung dropped by the wildebeests serves as fertilizer that helps the next season of grass to grow.


B e a u f o r t S e a

Yukon Peel

Mackenzie

Prudhoe Bay

Anchorage

Whitehorse

U N I T E D

S T A T E S(Alaska) C A N A D A

Arctic Circle

Long trek The largest herds roam Alaska and northern Canada, migrating to the coast in the summer.

Caribou are the world champions when it comes to distance traveled by a land mammal. They live in the far north of North America, Europe, and Russia. Each year they migrate between summer calving grounds and their winter homes. Some travel as far as 3,700 miles (6,000 km). Caribou can cover up to 35 miles (55 km) a day and can run at 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). If a river or lake is in the way, they just swim across.

CaribouTireless travelers

MigrationWhen spring comes to the Arctic and subarctic regions, groups of caribou join together to form huge herds numbering 50,000 to 500,000 animals. Like a river unleashed by a dam, they surge north to the calving grounds. In the fall, the herds break into smaller groups again for the return trip south to the sheltered forests.


Sep.Nov. MayJune

StalkPatience and cunning . . .Wolves hunt in packs. They rely on surprise and numbers to catch the larger caribou.

SurroundCircle and separate . . .The pack singles out a mother and calf from the herd, then circles and separates the pair.

Attack Feint and jabSome keep the mother busy; unprotected calves are no match against the hungry pack.

Right of wayEven in the frozen north, caribou must deal with man-made obstacles, such as oil and gas pipelines, that can block their traditional migratory routes. To prevent disruption, pipeline systems provide passageways for caribou. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline System has more than 500 elevated sections and 20 buried locations, so animals can freely cross under or over.

Antlers Males and females grow new antlers every year.

Fur Two coats keep them warm in the winter; the outer layer has hollow hairs.

Nose Large nostrils allow caribou to warm

freezing air before it enters the lungs.

Built for snow and iceFrom their noses to their spreadable toes, caribou are uniquely adapted to their harsh environment. Ears and tails are small to guard against freezing. Legs are short and powerful to run across snow and tundra. Hooves help them walk on ice without slipping and dig through snow for their favorite food, reindeer moss.

Hooves In the winter, footpads harden; in the summer, they soften to aid walking over tundra.

Toes Each foot has four toes that can be spread to act like snowshoes.

Body A compact body helps the

animal stay warm, no matter how

cold it gets.

polar bear




emperor penguin

Weight 200460 lb. (92210 kg)

Type MammalFamily CervidaeScientific name Rangifer tarandusDiet Lichen, sedges, willow leavesAverage lifespan Up to 10 years

Caribou fact file

Size Male: up to 7.5 ft. ( 2.25 m); Female: up to 6.75 ft. (2 m)

polar bear


emperor penguin


B e a u f o r t S e a

Yukon Peel

Mackenzie

Prudhoe Bay

Anchorage

Whitehorse

U N I T E D

S T A T E S(Alaska) C A N A D A

Arctic Circle

Long trek The largest herds roam Alaska and northern Canada, migrating to the coast in the summer.

Caribou are the world champions when it comes to distance traveled by a land mammal. They live in the far north of North America, Europe, and Russia. Each year they migrate between summer calving grounds and their winter homes. Some travel as far as 3,700 miles (6,000 km). Caribou can cover up to 35 miles (55 km) a day and can run at 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). If a river or lake is in the way, they just swim across.

CaribouTireless travelers

MigrationWhen spring comes to the Arctic and subarctic regions, groups of caribou join together to form huge herds numbering 50,000 to 500,000 animals. Like a river unleashed by a dam, they surge north to the calving grounds. In the fall, the herds break into smaller groups again for the return trip south to the sheltered forests.


Sep.Nov. MayJune

StalkPatience and cunning . . .Wolves hunt in packs. They rely on surprise and numbers to catch the larger caribou.

SurroundCircle and separate . . .The pack singles out a mother and calf from the herd, then circles and separates the pair.

Attack Feint and jabSome keep the mother busy; unprotected calves are no match against the hungry pack.

Right of wayEven in the frozen north, caribou must deal with man-made obstacles, such as oil and gas pipelines, that can block their traditional migratory routes. To prevent disruption, pipeline systems provide passageways for caribou. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline System has more than 500 elevated sections and 20 buried locations, so animals can freely cross under or over.

Antlers Males and females grow new antlers every year.

Fur Two coats keep them warm in the winter; the outer layer has hollow hairs.

Nose Large nostrils allow caribou to warm

freezing air before it enters the lungs.

Built for snow and iceFrom their noses to their spreadable toes, caribou are uniquely adapted to their harsh environment. Ears and tails are small to guard against freezing. Legs are short and powerful to run across snow and tundra. Hooves help them walk on ice without slipping and dig through snow for their favorite food, reindeer moss.

Hooves In the winter, footpads harden; in the summer, they soften to aid walking over tundra.

Toes Each foot has four toes that can be spread to act like snowshoes.

Body A compact body helps the

animal stay warm, no matter how

cold it gets.

polar bear




emperor penguin

Weight 200460 lb. (92210 kg)

Type MammalFamily CervidaeScientific name Rangifer tarandusDiet Lichen, sedges, willow leavesAverage lifespan Up to 10 years

Caribou fact file

Size Male: up to 7.5 ft. ( 2.25 m); Female: up to 6.75 ft. (2 m)

polar bear


emperor penguin

38 IncredIble Journeys 39Journeys by land 39Journeys by land

Arrivals The pregnant cows arrive at the grazing grounds first and almost all give birth in the first 10 days of June. This is a defense strategy for the species. With so many babies born at once, predators like wolves and brown bears can barely make a dent in the population. But even so, calves are not just easy pickings. Within hours of birth, a baby caribou can run faster than a human. Summer is not all fun and sun. When the air warms, the wet tundra gives rise to thick clouds of bloodsucking mosquitoes and black flies. Caribou rush to coastal areas where cool sea breezes blow away the pests.

Meadows Lush meadows of cotton grass await the hungry herds, but late snow can still cover patches of the far north when calving begins.

NorTHerN grAziNg grouNds The annual trek of caribou from Canada to Alaska rivals the great migrations across Africas Serengeti Plain. Three herds of 500,000 animals apiece, and countless smaller herds, make the trip. Seemingly endless lines of caribou arrive at the tundra to enjoy the summer. Thin after a long winter, they graze on a carpet of thick grass.

Summer in the Arctic

38 IncredIble Journeys 39Journeys by land 39Journeys by land

Arrivals The pregnant cows arrive at the grazing grounds first and almost all give birth in the first 10 days of June. This is a defense strategy for the species. With so many babies born at once, predators like wolves and brown bears can barely make a dent in the population. But even so, calves are not just easy pickings. Within hours of birth, a baby caribou can run faster than a human. Summer is not all fun and sun. When the air warms, the wet tundra gives rise to thick clouds of bloodsucking mosquitoes and black flies. Caribou rush to coastal areas where cool sea breezes blow away the pests.

Meadows Lush meadows of cotton grass await the hungry herds, but late snow can still cover patches of the far north when calving begins.

NorTHerN grAziNg grouNds The annual trek of caribou from Canada to Alaska rivals the great migrations across Africas Serengeti Plain. Three herds of 500,000 animals apiece, and countless smaller herds, make the trip. Seemingly endless lines of caribou arrive at the tundra to enjoy the summer. Thin after a long winter, they graze on a carpet of thick grass.

Summer in the Arctic

Sea-ice specialists


icy north Polar bears migrate closer to the pole when the ocean freezes but retreat to the mainland in the summer.

shared food Arctic foxes follow polar bears in the winter, hoping for leftovers.

A r c t i c

O c e a n

A S I A

E U R O P E

N O R T HA M E R I C A

North Pole

Arctic Circle

Polar bears roam hundreds of miles each year in search of prey, moving onto frozen seas then back to land when sea ice melts. Theirs is a truly mobile home. Sea ice drifts with ocean currents and shifts between freezing and melting. While the Arctics environment is harsh, it is far from lifeless. Areas of open water support plenty of life, including seals, narwhals, beluga whales, and walrus. All are food for the polar bear, the worlds largest meat eater that lives on land.

Polar bears Adapted for the ArcticPolar bears reflect the unusual world they live in. Their white fur is the perfect camouflage for sneaking up on seals, their favorite food. It also helps keep them warm in freezing temperatures. The top coat is made up of hollow guard hairs that repel water. Beneath a dense coat of underfur is a layer of blubber 4 inches (10 cm) thick.

Born on icePolar bears mate in April and May. During the next four months, the mother eats a lot, doubling her weight. Next, she digs a den and hibernates. She bears her cubs between November and February.

Claw Curved claws aid in digging in the ice and gripping seals.

Foot Large padded feet help with walking on ice and swimming.

The den The mother digs a den in snowdrifts or in permafrost.

The litter There are usually two cubs in the litter. At birth they weigh

less than 2 pounds (0.9 kg).

entrance The den is entered by a very narrow tunnel.

Long stay The family stays inside until spring;

the mother does not eat the whole time.

Type MammalFamily UrsidaeScientific name Ursus maritimusDiet Ringed and bearded sealsAverage lifespan 25 years

Polar bears fact file

Weight Males 7701,500 lb. (350680 kg); females: approx. half that

Size Males: 7.99.8 ft. (2.43 m); females: approx. half that

polar bear


emperor penguin

Sea-ice specialists


icy north Polar bears migrate closer to the pole when the ocean freezes but retreat to the mainland in the summer.

shared food Arctic foxes follow polar bears in the winter, hoping for leftovers.

A r c t i c

O c e a n

A S I A

E U R O P E

N O R T HA M E R I C A

North Pole

Arctic Circle

Polar bears roam hundreds of miles each year in search of prey, moving onto frozen seas then back to land when sea ice melts. Theirs is a truly mobile home. Sea ice drifts with ocean currents and shifts between freezing and melting. While the Arctics environment is harsh, it is far from lifeless. Areas of open water support plenty of life, including seals, narwhals, beluga whales, and walrus. All are food for the polar bear, the worlds largest meat eater that lives on land.

Polar bears Adapted for the ArcticPolar bears reflect the unusual world they live in. Their white fur is the perfect camouflage for sneaking up on seals, their favorite food. It also helps keep them warm in freezing temperatures. The top coat is made up of hollow guard hairs that repel water. Beneath a dense coat of underfur is a layer of blubber 4 inches (10 cm) thick.

Born on icePolar bears mate in April and May. During the next four months, the mother eats a lot, doubling her weight. Next, she digs a den and hibernates. She bears her cubs between November and February.

Claw Curved claws aid in digging in the ice and gripping seals.

Foot Large padded feet help with walking on ice and swimming.

The den The mother digs a den in snowdrifts or in permafrost.

The litter There are usually two cubs in the litter. At birth they weigh

less than 2 pounds (0.9 kg).

entrance The den is entered by a very narrow tunnel.

Long stay The family stays inside until spring;

the mother does not eat the whole time.

Type MammalFamily UrsidaeScientific name Ursus maritimusDiet Ringed and bearded sealsAverage lifespan 25 years

Polar bears fact file

Weight Males 7701,500 lb. (350680 kg); females: approx. half that

Size Males: 7.99.8 ft. (2.43 m); females: approx. half that

polar bear


emperor penguin


eat fish and changing temperatures alter fish populations, too.

swimming Polar bears typically swim from ice floe to ice floe and between land and pack ice. They are especially strong swimmers. The hollow hairs in the outer layer of fur help keep them afloat. But as the ice melts, they have to swim greater distances through open water, sometimes for days on end and for more than 60 miles (100 km) before reaching ice or land. More and more polar bears are drowning as a result.

disappearing ice The melting ice cap is already causing problems for polar bears. Food sources are growing scarcer and the bears are becoming thinner. The population, which now numbers between 20,000 and 25,000, is declining. In Hudson Bay, Canada, warmer temperatures and shrinking ice has cut the seal-hunting season by nearly three weeks. The average polar bear living there now weighs 15 percent less than before. The Hudson Bay population has dropped by 20 percent. The shrinking ice cap is also expected to lead to problems for the bears main prey, seals. Seals

Warmer temperatures caused by greenhouse gases are melting sea ice faster, shrinking the polar bears frozen world.

Loss of the ice cap

desperate swim As the ice cap melts, bears have to swim farther to find food.

Many cubs drown.

Catching sealsThe Arctic is home to millions of ringed and bearded seals. Polar bears depend on the two species for survival. They spend much of their waking hours hunting and eating the blubbery creatures in order to build up their own fat reserves. The bears hunt mostly in places where the ice meets the open water.

Waiting Polar bears rely on their strong senses of smell and hearing to locate seals.

ready to strike The bear smells the seals breath, jabs its paw into the hole, and hauls the seal out.

successful catch Dragging it onto the ice, the bear kills the seal, biting its head and crushing its skull.

iCe FLoes ANd oPeN WATer Polar bears spend most of their time wandering across large chunks of ice floating in the Arctic Ocean. But that ice is now melting under their feet faster than ever. Global warming is to blame. Over the past 30 years, the Arctic ice cap has shrunk by a size equal to nearly one-third of the continental United States or one-fourth of all of Europe. This has a huge impact on Arctic wildlife, especially polar bears. Scientists predict that two-thirds of polar bears could disappear by 2050 if the melting trend continues.


eat fish and changing temperatures alter fish populations, too.

swimming Polar bears typically swim from ice floe to ice floe and between land and pack ice. They are especially strong swimmers. The hollow hairs in the outer layer of fur help keep them afloat. But as the ice melts, they have to swim greater distances through open water, sometimes for days on end and for more than 60 miles (100 km) before reaching ice or land. More and more polar bears are drowning as a result.

disappearing ice The melting ice cap is already causing problems for polar bears. Food sources are growing scarcer and the bears are becoming thinner. The population, which now numbers between 20,000 and 25,000, is declining. In Hudson Bay, Canada, warmer temperatures and shrinking ice has cut the seal-hunting season by nearly three weeks. The average polar bear living there now weighs 15 percent less than before. The Hudson Bay population has dropped by 20 percent. The shrinking ice cap is also expected to lead to problems for the bears main prey, seals. Seals

Warmer temperatures caused by greenhouse gases are melting sea ice faster, shrinking the polar bears frozen world.

Loss of the ice cap

desperate swim As the ice cap melts, bears have to swim farther to find food.

Many cubs drown.

Catching sealsThe Arctic is home to millions of ringed and bearded seals. Polar bears depend on the two species for survival. They spend much of their waking hours hunting and eating the blubbery creatures in order to build up their own fat reserves. The bears hunt mostly in places where the ice meets the open water.

Waiting Polar bears rely on their strong senses of smell and hearing to locate seals.

ready to strike The bear smells the seals breath, jabs its paw into the hole, and hauls the seal out.

successful catch Dragging it onto the ice, the bear kills the seal, biting its head and crushing its skull.

iCe FLoes ANd oPeN WATer Polar bears spend most of their time wandering across large chunks of ice floating in the Arctic Ocean. But that ice is now melting under their feet faster than ever. Global warming is to blame. Over the past 30 years, the Arctic ice cap has shrunk by a size equal to nearly one-third of the continental United States or one-fourth of all of Europe. This has a huge impact on Arctic wildlife, especially polar bears. Scientists predict that two-thirds of polar bears could disappear by 2050 if the melting trend continues.


Emperor penguins are birds that dont fly and spend most of their time swimming. But it is their march across ice every year to breed and bear their young that makes them even more amazing. Penguins must shuffle and toboggan on their bellies to complete their long journeys, for many up to 125 miles (200 km) one way. Once the chick is born, parents must make the trip over and over again to bring it food.

Emperor penguinsA cold march

A cold waitThe chicks are hungryPenguins are born in one of the coldest places on Earth. The mother lays the egg, but the father incubates it. He balances it on top of his feet for nine weeks, careful never to let it touch the ice. Older chicks are left alone while their parents hunt.

Parents returnThe successful hunters With their torpedo-shaped bodies, penguins are designed more for swimming than walking. Getting onto the pack ice to return to their chicks requires shooting out of the water and making a belly-flop landing.

Feeding time A welcome mealThe parents catch a variety of species on their fishing trips, often swallowing the prey whole. Back at the nesting grounds the parent regurgitates the food, giving the chick a warm, liquid meal.

Freezing winter Emperor penguins and their chicks remain on the Antarctic continent throughout the winter.

A N TA R C T I C ASouth Pole

A nt a r

c t i c C i r c l e

Anta r c t i c C i r c l e

Type BirdFamily SpheniscidaeScientific name Aptenodytes forsteriDiet Fish, krill, and squid

Average lifespan 20 years

Penguins fact file

Weight 4999 lb. (2245 kg)

Size Up to 48 in. (122 cm) tall

polar bear


emperor penguin


Emperor penguins are birds that dont fly and spend most of their time swimming. But it is their march across ice every year to breed and bear their young that makes them even more amazing. Penguins must shuffle and toboggan on their bellies to complete their long journeys, for many up to 125 miles (200 km) one way. Once the chick is born, parents must make the trip over and over again to bring it food.

Emperor penguinsA cold march

A cold waitThe chicks are hungryPenguins are born in one of the coldest places on Earth. The mother lays the egg, but the father incubates it. He balances it on top of his feet for nine weeks, careful never to let it touch the ice. Older chicks are left alone while their parents hunt.

Parents returnThe successful hunters With their torpedo-shaped bodies, penguins are designed more for swimming than walking. Getting onto the pack ice to return to their chicks requires shooting out of the water and making a belly-flop landing.

Feeding time A welcome mealThe parents catch a variety of species on their fishing trips, often swallowing the prey whole. Back at the nesting grounds the parent regurgitates the food, giving the chick a warm, liquid meal.

Freezing winter Emperor penguins and their chicks remain on the Antarctic continent throughout the winter.

A N TA R C T I C ASouth Pole

A nt a r

c t i c C i r c l e

Anta r c t i c C i r c l e

Type BirdFamily SpheniscidaeScientific name Aptenodytes forsteriDiet Fish, krill, and squid

Average lifespan 20 years

Penguins fact file

Weight 4999 lb. (2245 kg)

Size Up to 48 in. (122 cm) tall

polar bear


emperor penguin


Not all migrations are long journeys or on set routes. In rainforests, such as those on Borneo in Southeast Asia, primates keep moving from tree to tree. For them, it is a never-ending race to reach ripening fruit before it is found by others. The forest vegetation is dense, and the fruit is often far above the ground. Finding food is never easy. For an animal that cannot fly, reaching it requires special abilities.

Forest primatesTreetop dwellers

Hands and feetLike humans, primates have refined hands and feet for grasping that sets them apart from other animals. Their fingers and toes move easily and have sensitive pads at the tips and nails instead of claws.

GibbonWith long hands and feet, and wrists with ball-and-socket joints, gibbons can swing from tree to tree faster than any other primate. They can reach speeds up to 35 mph (56 km/h).

OrangutanThe orangutan is the largest primate living in trees. It has the longest arms, but it is not a graceful swinger. Instead, it uses its weight to sway one branch closer to the next.

Red leafsRed leaf monkeys dont swing but walk along tree limbs and branches on all fours. They travel in noisy groups of up to 12 individuals led by a dominant male.

Forest fruit Rambutan are a favorite food for many species of primates. Family groups migrate through the forest, searching for the fruit in season.

Primate hand An opposable thumb can push against the other fingers to aid in gripping.

Primate foot The big toe is set apart from the other four, allowing for a strong

grasp on branches.

Other speciesThe tropical rainforests of the world support dozens of species of fruit-eating primates. With few exceptions, they are foragers, traveling high and low through the jungle in search of food.

Macaque Long-tailed macaques leap between trees, using their long tails for balance.

gibbon White-handed gibbons have hooked hands for speedy movement by swinging.

Monkey The proboscis monkey often walks on the ground as well as traveling through trees.


Not all migrations are long journeys or on set routes. In rainforests, such as those on Borneo in Southeast Asia, primates keep moving from tree to tree. For them, it is a never-ending race to reach ripening fruit before it is found by others. The forest vegetation is dense, and the fruit is often far above the ground. Finding food is never easy. For an animal that cannot fly, reaching it requires special abilities.

Forest primatesTreetop dwellers

Hands and feetLike humans, primates have refined hands and feet for grasping that sets them apart from other animals. Their fingers and toes move easily and have sensitive pads at the tips and nails instead of claws.

GibbonWith long hands and feet, and wrists with ball-and-socket joints, gibbons can swing from tree to tree faster than any other primate. They can reach speeds up to 35 mph (56 km/h).

OrangutanThe orangutan is the largest primate living in trees. It has the longest arms, but it is not a graceful swinger. Instead, it uses its weight to sway one branch closer to the next.

Red leafsRed leaf monkeys dont swing but walk along tree limbs and branches on all fours. They travel in noisy groups of up to 12 individuals led by a dominant male.

Forest fruit Rambutan are a favorite food for many species of primates. Family groups migrate through the forest, searching for the fruit in season.

Primate hand An opposable thumb can push against the other fingers to aid in gripping.

Primate foot The big toe is set apart from the other four, allowing for a strong

grasp on branches.

Other speciesThe tropical rainforests of the world support dozens of species of fruit-eating primates. With few exceptions, they are foragers, traveling high and low through the jungle in search of food.

Macaque Long-tailed macaques leap between trees, using their long tails for balance.

gibbon White-handed gibbons have hooked hands for speedy movement by swinging.

Monkey The proboscis monkey often walks on the ground as well as traveling through trees.


Mountain dwellersSome migratory routes are up and down rather than north to south or east to west. This is the case for animals that live in steep mountains, like Dall sheep and mountain goats in North America and takin in Central Asia. But, as with other migrants, one of their main reasons for migrating is the search for food. In the winter, animals typically move to lower elevations; in the summer they seek the high ground.

Vertical migration

Butting heads Male Dall sheep sport thick, curling horns that grow continually and are never shed. Rams hold head-butting contests to establish leadership in a herd. The duels can go on for hours. Females have horns, too, but theirs are shorter, more slender, and less curved.

grazers Takin live in the Himalayas and graze in bamboo forests and alpine meadows.

On the prowl Steep slopes provide some protection, but mountain dwellers must always be on the lookout for predators like the snow leopard that stalks wild goats and sheep in Central Asias mountain ranges. In North America, the danger comes from wolves, coyotes, bears, and golden eagles.

A dash of salt Mountain sheep and goats eat a wide variety of plants during the summer, but in the winter their diet is limited to mostly dry, frozen grass and lichen and moss. In the spring, animals look for natural salt licks, such as the one on this rocky cliff, to supplement their diet.

special hooves The takins two toes spread apart like fingers, making climbing easier. Special pads provide traction.

dall sheep These agile sheep can leap small streams as well as climb steep rocky walls.


Mountain dwellersSome migratory routes are up and down rather than north to south or east to west. This is the case for animals that live in steep mountains, like Dall sheep and mountain goats in North America and takin in Central Asia. But, as with other migrants, one of their main reasons for migrating is the search for food. In the winter, animals typically move to lower elevations; in the summer they seek the high ground.

Vertical migration

Butting heads Male Dall sheep sport thick, curling horns that grow continually and are never shed. Rams hold head-butting contests to establish leadership in a herd. The duels can go on for hours. Females have horns, too, but theirs are shorter, more slender, and less curved.

grazers Takin live in the Himalayas and graze in bamboo forests and alpine meadows.

On the prowl Steep slopes provide some protection, but mountain dwellers must always be on the lookout for predators like the snow leopard that stalks wild goats and sheep in Central Asias mountain ranges. In North America, the danger comes from wolves, coyotes, bears, and golden eagles.

A dash of salt Mountain sheep and goats eat a wide variety of plants during the summer, but in the winter their diet is limited to mostly dry, frozen grass and lichen and moss. In the spring, animals look for natural salt licks, such as the one on this rocky cliff, to supplement their diet.

special hooves The takins two toes spread apart like fingers, making climbing easier. Special pads provide traction.

dall sheep These agile sheep can leap small streams as well as climb steep rocky walls.


High altitude Mountain goats live in North America as far south as the Rocky Mountains. They rarely come down below the treeline. The tips of their feet have a special claw that is sharp and helps them to avoid slipping. Double-layer wool coats keep them warm, even when winter temperatures drop to 50F (46C) and winds blow as hard as 100 miles per hour (160 km/h). Kids are born in the spring and start running and climbing within hours of birth.

Life on a slippery slope

Mountainside migrants must keep a tight grip to survive.

WiLd goATs ANd sHeeP The four-footed inhabitants of the high country are uniquely adapted to its dizzying heights. They need the ability to climb, leap, and not slip. They must also be able to stay warm and out of reach of predators. Dall sheeps cloven hooves make them sure-footed while scaling rock

Animal Planet: Incredible Journeys

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