Nestled in Zambia's Central Province, the Kasanka National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike, renowned for its breathtaking annual bat migration.
LUSAKA, Dec. 24 (Xinhua) -- Nestled in Zambia's Central Province, the Kasanka National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists alike, renowned for its breathtaking annual bat migration.
The migration, typically occurring between October and December, has seen millions of straw-colored fruit bats descend upon the park each year, creating a mesmerizing scene as they fill the sky at dawn and dusk.
This natural spectacle has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from worldwide who are keen to witness this unique phenomenon.
While it remains unclear why the bats move to Zambia during that time of the year, reports suggest that they are lured by the abundant seasonal local fruits, berries, and flowers in the marshlands and forests surrounding the park.
Simon Siame, a seasoned tour guide at the Kasanka National Park, explained the significance of this event. "Every year, we witness the arrival of about 12 million fruit bats. It's a sight to behold, as they emerge from the trees in a swirling mass, creating a living cloud that stretches across the horizon," Siame said.
He added that the bat migration has, over the years, drawn hundreds of visitors to the park.
Among them is Cathy Wells, a 51-year-old school teacher from Lusaka, Zambia's capital, who recently traveled to Kasanka to witness the spectacle firsthand.
"I have heard about the bat migration for years, but seeing it in person is an entirely different experience. The sheer number of bats is overwhelming," Wells said.
She went on to encourage others to make the journey to the Kasanka National Park to watch the fruit bats' migration and explore other natural wonders.
"If you have the chance to see the bat migration, don't hesitate. It's an experience that will change your perspective on nature and conservation," she said.
As more people become aware of the world's largest mammal migration, the park is committed to ensuring that the experience remains sustainable. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the bats and their habitat, allowing future generations to witness this phenomenal event as well.
"We are committed to preserving the environment while providing an unforgettable experience for our visitors; it's a delicate balance, but one that we are dedicated to maintaining," Siame emphasized.
Alfred Mbewe, a culture and tourism specialist in Zambia, said the bat migration has not only put the Kasanka National Park on the map but also made a significant contribution to the country's overall tourism industry.
"This event has brought a lot of attention to Zambia and helped promote our country as a top tourist destination. It has also created employment opportunities for locals, boosting the economic growth of the surrounding communities," Mbewe said.
Apart from the bat migration, the park boasts other tourist attractions as well, such as the Wasa Lake, a forest-fringed haven for various water birds, and the elusive sitatunga antelope. The park also offers a wide range of activities for tourists, including game drives, camping, and birdwatching.
In addition to its rich wildlife and natural beauty, the park has a strong focus on conservation and community involvement.
The Kasanka National Park has been carrying out sensitization programs in nearby villages, aimed at educating people about the importance of preserving forests. Through these programs, village leaders and community members have been empowered with knowledge and tools to advance forest conservation and wildlife protection. ■
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