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Can you figure out the savanna mystery? - Cella Wright

2025-08-26

[public] 158K views, 6.73K likes, dislikes audio only

Explore how big-headed ants have changed an entire ecosystem in Kenya, from its insects and plants to its biggest predators.

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In the early 2000s, one of the world’s most widespread invasive species landed in Kenya’s Laikipia Plateau: big-headed ants. They expanded rapidly into super-colonies, preying on other insects, spiders, and even small birds. Their presence has wreaked havoc on the ecosystem and significantly changed the landscape. So, how did these tiny creatures have such a huge impact? Cella Wright investigates.

Lesson by Cella Wright, directed by Steve West, Lazy Chief.

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Animator's website: https://www.lazychief.com

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