Muttonbird

A seabird of the genus *Ardenna*, particularly the short-tailed shearwater (*Ardenna tenuirostris*), valued for its meat and oil. They are found in the Southern Hemisphere, migrating long distances annually. The term 'muttonbird' also refers to the bird's dark, oily meat, which has a distinct, gamey flavor. Aboriginal Australians, especially in Tasmania and the Bass Strait islands, have a long-standing cultural and dietary connection to these birds, harvesting them sustainably for centuries. They are a significant part of indigenous cultural practices and a seasonal food source. Harvesting usually occurs during the breeding season. These birds are typically harvested when they are young chicks, referred to as squabs or fledglings.

Muttonbird meaning with examples

• The annual muttonbird harvest is a significant cultural event for many Aboriginal communities. Families gather, sharing the tradition and skills passed down through generations. The process of catching, preparing, and preserving the birds is carefully managed, ensuring sustainability. The salty, smoky aroma of cooking muttonbirds filled the air, a familiar and comforting scent to the locals. The children help collect the birds, participating in a tradition.
• He savored the taste of roasted muttonbird, its rich, oily flavor unlike anything else. The specific way the birds are cooked varies from region to region. The traditional method included cooking the birds in earth ovens. The meat, packed in specially woven baskets, was a vital provision for the long journey. The unique flavor comes from the birds’ diet of krill and small fish.
• The muttonbird rookeries, teeming with nesting birds and their chicks, are a sight to behold. The cliffs and islands resonate with the sounds of the nesting birds. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the nesting sites from predators and human disturbance. The flocks of the muttonbird flying home are a spectacle for anyone watching. Researchers monitor the populations to ensure they are flourishing.
• The fisherman returned with a plentiful catch of muttonbird, enough to feed his family for the winter. He spent days preparing the meat, salting and smoking it to preserve it. The fisherman had generations of knowledge of harvesting the birds. The boat was packed with the spoils of his endeavor. His expertise allowed him to make a good living.
• The traveler, unfamiliar with muttonbird, was intrigued by the locals' enthusiasm for it. He tried some and slowly grew to enjoy the savory taste. He eventually learned to appreciate the culinary traditions and the respect for the birds. The experience offered the tourist a deeper understanding of the island’s culture. He now shares his memories of the muttonbird and its unique flavor.