Residents of Ban Don Tat Ruea in Non Daeng district have shifted to harvesting red ant eggs as an alternative source of income as the dry season curtails farming activities. The roadside trees, particularly between Ban Don Tat Ruea and Ban Don Udom, are a hub for this seasonal collection, providing villagers with both sustenance and a financial boost through sales. Get today's headlines by email This practice has been ongoing during the farming lull, with the ants building nests that yield eggs sought after for both personal consumption and market sale. Locals, like Priyaporn Khaengkhan, spend several hours daily collecting these eggs, balancing their time between this activity and their agricultural work. She notes that her daily harvest typically amounts to 1–2 kilogrammes. The current market rate for red ant eggs is about 500 baht per kilogramme, encouraging some villagers to focus on this lucrative endeavor. Despite high prices, the demand remains robust, with customers often placing advance orders. This demand allows collectors to earn between 1,000 and 1,500 baht per day, significantly alleviating economic pressures in a typically tough season. Looking forward, residents are considering the potential expansion of this practice if demand continues to rise. The steady income offers an unexpected boon, prompting discussions on whether to allocate more resources towards harvesting in future dry seasons. This shift could signal a new trend for rural income strategies in the region, reported Khaosod. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Khaosod · 20 Mar 2026
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