The Great Termite Harvest

In the distant days of my childhood, when daily chores were our source of entertainment, spending time with friends meant workforce. It was an era when the simple joys of collaboration with friends and siblings filled our days. Among all the cherished memories, there is one event that stands out vividly in my mind—a peculiar tradition known as the "Harvest of Termites."

In those days, winged termites were considered a delicacy, easily attainable with a few collaborative efforts from friends and family members. This unique activity was reserved for the dry season when vegetable scarcity prevailed. The process of harvesting termites began with the identification of a termite den—a mound of earth that housed these tiny creatures. We would excitedly scrape around the mound, searching for the telltale tiny oval holes that served as their entry points.

With eager anticipation, we would pour water into these holes and quickly cover them with makeshift balls made from mud. Each member of the group had a specific role to play. Some of us would bite down on a thick piece of wood lying on the ground, creating a rhythmic sound that resonated through the air. This peculiar rhythm was said to lure the termites out of their hiding places. Others would mold castles around the holes, constructing intricate tunnels that would direct the termites toward a central collection point.

We would continue these activities for approximately 30 minutes, eagerly awaiting the moment when the termites would reveal themselves. As the minutes ticked by, a hush would fall over us, and our collective efforts would grow more fervent. And then, like clockwork, the termites would begin to emerge from their underground chambers, their tiny heads peeping out, as if checking if the rain had truly arrived.

Throughout the process, the rhythmic biting of the wood would persist, creating a symphony of sound. The first sign that the termites were drawing closer was the arrival of particular birds, their graceful flight patterns indicating that a feast awaited them. We would be ready with buckets in hand, eagerly collecting the winged insects. The air would be abuzz with excitement and laughter as we competed to see who could gather the most termites.

Once our buckets were filled, we would triumphantly return home, our hearts filled with the anticipation of the delicious treats to come. The harvested termites would be carefully spread out to dry, their delicate bodies turning crispy in the warm sun. The aromatic scent of the drying termites wafting through the air was a testament to our successful harvest.

In the days that followed, the dried termites would be meticulously fried to perfection. Their nutty flavor, combined with a satisfying crunch, made them a sought-after delicacy. We would store them in jars, ensuring that our precious bounty would last for weeks to come. The dried termites became a treasured resource during times of vegetable scarcity, serving as a nutritious supplement to our meals.

For some, the harvest of winged termites became more than just a childhood tradition—it evolved into a lucrative business. They honed their skills, perfected their techniques, and collected vast quantities of termites to sell in local markets. What began as a simple activity filled with joy and camaraderie transformed into a profitable venture, providing an unexpected source of income for those involved.

As I reflect upon these memories, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia. The harvest of termites was not merely a culinary adventure; it was a symbol of collaboration, friendship, and resourcefulness. Through this unique activity, we learned the value of working together, the joy of a shared experience, and the satisfaction of reaping the rewards of our collective efforts.

The passage of time may have transformed the landscape of our lives, but the memories of those carefree days continue to bring a smile to my face. The harvest of termites stands as a testament to the ingenuity and camaraderie of our childhood, reminding us of the simple pleasures we once treasured.