Invasion Of The . . .

The Hot Spring Night . . .

Began like any other. The sun setting, whispy clouds, gentle breeze. Little did I know that would soon change.

It had rained earlier, I sat listening to the serenade of the frogs and watching the small geckos scurrying across the walls while I drank my coffee.

I should have realized something was coming when I saw this larger one show up.

Rarely do get the opportunity to take a photo of one this big, as they remain in the shadows normally. But it was waiting for . . . something?

And Then . . .

It began!

No warning, they came out of the darkness. 1000's of them! They were everywhere!

Quickly we turned off the patio lights, leaving only the solar yard lights on. But it was too late!

The only thing I could do was . . . Grab my phone!

Termites!

Yes, the Asian Coptotermes gestroi.

This time of year they emerge with wings and fly off to mate. Attracted, like so many other bugs here, to light, the swarm comes

.

The photos don't do justice in showing the sheer mass of the swarm. The ground is covered. The piles by the guest house were probably 15 cm (6 inches) deep.

This is the second such swarm since the rain started this month.

But This Is Thailand . . .

Where even termites serve a purpose!

They loose their wings to mate. That is a large laundry tub with a few 100, now wingless, termites. Why are they in the tub, you may ask?

Well, that's because . . .

They become this, a spicy deep fried snack!

Yes, I kid you not!

Already pre-cooked, they will be sat in the sun tomorrow, the few wings removed, quickly stir-fried in spicy oil again, and then eaten.

Unless you have been to SE Asia, you might be shocked at what counts as food!

I haven't tried them. But I have eaten other bugs here. I may throw caution to the wind, and give it a go.

So today's question is . . . would YOU try them? Let me know in the comments!

Best Regards

Richard Taylor

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"The only limits you have are those you impose upon yourself. Remove the limits!"