Book

Hunting and gathering: the forage economy of the Siwai of Bougainville

Development Studies Centre, Australian National University (6) • Published In 1977 • Pages: vi, 28

By: Connell, John.

Abstract
This document discusses Siwai hunting and gathering activities that supplement their agricultural economy and diet. Combining information from both original fieldwork and earlier studies, it shows the gradual decline of pig hunting, from a grand communal affair to an uncommon, individual pursuit of little economic, dietary, or ritual importance. Opossums, however, remain essential for feasts and ceremonies. Other species hunted include rats, flying foxes, several species of birds, turtles and crocodiles. Siwais living near coastal areas also fish. The two principal gathered foods are canarium nuts that are consumed and traded locally, and sago palm which is processed to make flour and has been used in the past as a famine food.
Subjects
Fauna
Collecting
Fowling
Hunting and trapping
Fishing
Arboriculture
Food preparation
Diet
Price and value
culture
Siwai
HRAF PubDate
2016
Region
Oceania
Sub Region
Melanesia
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard; 2014
Field Date
1974-1976, 1981
Coverage Date
1938-1976
Coverage Place
southern Bougainville, North Solomons Province, Papua New Guinea
Notes
John Connell
Includes bibliographical references (p. 26-28)
LCCN
78304058
LCSH
Siuai (Papuan people)--Economic conditions
Hunting and gathering societies--Papua New Guinea--Bougainville Island