Djeran (April – May)
Ant season, or the season of adulthood
Djeran sees a break in the really hot weather and generally spans April to May. A key indicator of the change of season is the cool nights, that once again bring dew for us to discover in the early mornings. As the season progresses the nights will become cooler and damper, along with some cool and rainy days.
The winds have also changed, especially in their intensity, with light breezes generally swinging from the south-east to south-west.
Many flying ants can be seen cruising around in the light winds. The previous season’s young have reached maturity and most have either left their parents or are getting ready to. This is why it is also often referred to as the ant season or the season of adulthood.
Djeran is a time of red flowers, including the red flowering gum (Corymbia ficifolia) on the south coast, as well as the smaller and more petite flowers of the summer flame (Beaufortia aestiva) in the north of Nyungar Country. You may also notice the red ‘rust’ and seed cones forming on the male and female sheoaks (Allocasuarina fraseriana), called condil. Banksias start to display their flowers too.
Traditionally, foods at this time of year included the seeds (bayu) that had been collected and stored for treatment from the zamia (djiriji) last season along with the root bulbs of the yanget (rushes), bardi grubs, fresh water fish, kooyar (frogs), yakaarn (turtles) and quenda (southern brown bandicoot). Mia-mias (houses or shelters) were repaired and reinforced at this time of year also, to make sure they were waterproofed and facing in the right direction in readiness for the cold and wet weather to come.
Nowadays, it’s a great time of year to go for a bush walk or a fish….usually….Given the unnerving and somewhat bizarre situation we find ourselves in at the moment, with the global COVID-19 pandemic forcing us to limit our interaction with each other and the outside world, the crew at Kooyar Wongi have been feeling philosophical. We have been reflecting on just how beautiful our South West natural environment is, how lucky we are to have it on our doorstep, and how much we miss it! We have also been reflecting on just how lucky we are to have each other, our family, our friends and our usual quality of life.
As they say, “This too shall pass.”. But until it does, look after yourselves and your loved ones. Seeya on the other side! #wereallinthistogether
