What did the montagnais people eat?

The Montagnais, also known as the Innu, were a nomadic Indigenous people who lived in the boreal forests of what is now Quebec and Labrador in Canada. Their diet was based on the abundant resources available in their environment.

Here are some of the foods they consumed:

Hunting:

* Caribou: The primary source of protein for the Montagnais. They hunted caribou using various methods like trapping, hunting with bows and arrows, and spears.

* Beaver: Another significant source of protein and fur. They hunted beavers in winter when they were easier to catch in their lodges.

* Moose: Hunted for their meat and hide.

* Hare: Small game hunted with traps or snares.

* Bird: Various birds were hunted for their feathers, eggs, and meat.

Fishing:

* Salmon: Found in rivers and lakes, and a key source of protein, especially during summer months.

* Trout: Another important source of protein.

* Pike: A predator fish caught in lakes and rivers.

Gathering:

* Berries: Various types of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries were important seasonal foods.

* Roots and tubers: Eaten raw or cooked.

* Mushrooms: Gathered in the forests.

* Maple syrup: Harvested from maple trees in spring.

* Nuts and seeds: Gathered from various trees and plants.

Other Foods:

* Meat broth: Soups and stews were made using animal bones and meat.

* Pemmican: A high-energy food made by drying and grinding meat and berries, mixed with fat.

The Montagnais diet was varied and adapted to the seasons. It was rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, providing them with the necessary nutrients to survive in their harsh environment. They practiced sustainable hunting and gathering practices to ensure the continued availability of resources for future generations.