Jasper Raats

In Limpopo province, zoologists Peter and Janine Snyman used a far-sighted strategy to help save a colony of endangered Cape griffon vultures from being wiped out by the muti trade. About 11 years ago, the Snymans realised that young birds in the colony breeding in the Blouberg Nature Reserve were being sold to local sangomas.

A swarm of locusts on the horizon usually spells doom to most societies, but the VhaVenda people in South Africa’s Limpopo Province welcome this natural phenomenon. In fact, it is seen as a blessing from the ancestors. <i>Earthyear</i> takes a closer look at these creepy crawlies … and how to cook them.

"I take a perverse delight in getting up people’s noses. I’ve been doing it very successfully since school days and can’t see any reason to break an enjoyable habit". David Bullard is spoiling for another verbal fight, but he doubts whether there are any worthy opponents left.