It is always fascinating to see the emergence of the Alates (flying termites) and to witness the hive of activity that results from that. Birds, small mammals and frogs all come out to feast on the termites who soon after their “nuptial flight” loose their wings and can be seen crawling around on the ground in their thousands. These alates are the reproductives (future Kings and Queens) and if successful in finding a mate, will start a new colony of their own.

While watching all these creatures feasting an the termites we also noticed a red lipped herald snake (earlier described on this blog) hoping to catch one of the “unwary” frogs around.

One might say it’s only termites, but it is a facinating moment in nature to witness the alates taking to the air.

Westley Lombard – Kapama Lodge Ranger