What food did coast miwoks eat?

The Coast Miwok, like many indigenous groups, were skilled hunter-gatherers who took advantage of the abundant resources available to them along the California coast. Here's a breakdown of their diet:

Plant-Based Foods:

* Acorns: Acorns were a staple food, requiring extensive processing to remove tannins and make them edible. They were ground into flour and used in a variety of dishes.

* Berries: The Coast Miwok collected and ate various berries, including blackberries, strawberries, elderberries, and huckleberries.

* Seeds: Seeds from plants like wild grasses and sunflowers were harvested and eaten.

* Roots and Tubers: They dug for roots and tubers, including camas, wild onions, and wild potatoes.

* Mushrooms and Fungi: Various edible mushrooms and fungi were part of their diet.

Animal-Based Foods:

* Fish: Fishing played a crucial role in their diet. They utilized nets, hooks, and spears to catch fish like salmon, trout, cod, and herring.

* Shellfish: Clams, mussels, abalone, and oysters were common seafood sources.

* Sea Mammals: They hunted seals, sea otters, and occasionally whales using harpoons and other tools.

* Land Mammals: Deer, elk, rabbits, and other small animals were hunted for meat.

Other Foods:

* Birds and Eggs: They also consumed various birds and their eggs.

* Insects: Some insects were considered edible, adding to their diet.

Importance of Seasonal Availability:

The Coast Miwok diet was heavily influenced by the seasons. They adapted their food gathering and hunting strategies to the availability of different resources throughout the year.

Their diet was diverse and provided them with the necessary nutrients for survival and thrived in their coastal environment.