Invasion of the Grasshoppers

Every day in Zambia brings about new discoveries and adventures for the Sibleys. A few nights ago, I was working intently at the computer when I thought it had started to rain. Since our roof is metal, we can always hear the rain. This time it wasn't rain but grasshoppers as they slammed into our windows from all directions.

These grasshoppers are up to three inches long. Some are bright green, others are brown as you can see in the picture below. When we woke up the next morning, the outside of our house was covered with them. Those that crashed into the windows were dead. Wings and pieces of legs were everywhere.

Jason went downstairs with a broom to chase them away. The air turned into a sea of green as they flew into nearby bushes and trees. Augustine and Bridget had some friends at their house who watched in horror as Jason cleared our windows and doorways of the huge insects.

You see, grasshoppers are prized by many in Zambia for their taste. The cook removes the wings before throwing them into the hot pan. Evidently, they do not need cooking oil as they produce plenty of liquid as they fry. Of course I have heard that many people eat grasshoppers and termites since our first visit to Zambia. But, to know that someone actually thought we were being wasteful by chasing the bugs away, well that brings a whole new dimension to my understanding.

The boys and Jason caught a bunch of the huge bugs and put them into a ZipLoc bag that we brought from home. When our vegetable lady arrived, Augustine gave the bag to her. She was so happy! It's hard to hand over a bag full of green and brown insects to someone knowing they will be served with tonight's dinner. That said, what a terrific way to solve two problems. One is the infestation, the other is utilizing a nuisance as a source of much needed protein.

Above is a closeup of the bugs on the outside of the house. Below is a picture from the inside of our living room. You can also see the curtains and ties Jason made.

The picture below was taken from the outside of the living room looking in.

And here is a bag partially filled. After adding many more grasshoppers, we gave the bag to our vegetable lady.

I've told you before that Zambians are a very resourceful people. They are smart and strong. They don't let the repulsive thought of eating bugs deter them from making use of an available protein source.

I hope you have a wonderful day today. We give thanks to God for the many gifts of friendship He has lavished upon us. Thank you JESUS!

Blessings and joy,
Beckie