After the heavy rains we have just had, the winged termites known as Alates were abundantly found on Kapama’s Eastern section. We were driving past KK dam and came across a pair of Black-Backed Jackals who were feasting on these insects. My guests found it quite amusing as these very capable carnivores, were to them, snapping their jaws at absolutely nothing. These termites ( most of us know them incorrectly as “flying ants” ) are an extremely good source of protein and even humans can use them for food, if lost in the African bush. Certain birds of prey use these peanut butter flavoured “bugs” to boost their fat in-take for the long journeys abroad, when leaving Africa for other parts of the world.

Dean Robinson

Senior Ranger

Kapama Main Lodge