There is a kind of humming in KNP – here’s why!
The amplified sound of nature is currently experienced at Letaba Rest Camp.
Hearing the humming of cicadas while gazing at the animals in the Kruger National Park (KNP) may set you in the mood for a real African safari, but the humming which is currently experienced in the park can be overwhelming.
The management at Letaba Rest Camp would like to inform visitors that it is that time the camp is experiencing an outburst of cicadas, whose sound can be amplified by multitudes of insects into an overpowering hum.
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Their sound varies widely, with some species more musical than others.
According to SANParks, cicadas are known to entirely disappear for many years, only to reappear in force at intervals.
Listen to the cicadas here – (audio supplied – video for illustration purposes only):
“Their abundance can be triggered by the temperature, humidity and rainfall the area receives at certain periods. Although harmless, the insects are attracted to light and we advise guests to keep their unit doors closed in the evenings, as well as keeping the veranda light off where possible,” they said in a statement.
Although the humming may disturb sleep patterns and cause some inconvenience, Mellissa Bushby, and avid Kruger Park visitor and editor of Get It magazine at Lowveld Media, ‘hums’ with excitement when asked her thoughts on the subject.
“Oh I love them. It shows the life and vibrancy of nature and it brings to mind the cycle of life. It also reminds me that Christmas is coming,” Busby said.
