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7366645 
Book/Book Chapter 
Aboriginal use and conservation of wildlife in northern Australia: a cultural necessity 
Vardon, M; Missi, C; Cleary, M; Webb, G 
1997 
The University of Queensland 
Brisbane, Australia 
Conservation Outside Nature Reserves 
241-245 
English 
Aboriginal use of wildlife in the Top End of the Northern Territory of Australia has occurred for tens of thousands of years and remains common and widespread today. Indeed, the principle land use of 39% of the Northern Territory is the killing and eating of wildlife by Aboriginal people. Harvesting is mostly for subsistence purposes although trade occurs and a kinship system results in wildfoods being shared between people in clan groups. The extent of sale or barter is largely unknown. A survey undertaken in 1995 interviewed 237 indigenous people from 13 locations. The aim was to obtain an overview of non-fish vertebrate wildlife consumption and to assess the potential market for such wildlife. More than 50 species identified as food items were consumed in varying frequencies and volumes. The survey highlighted the continuing cultural importance of wildfoods to Aboriginal people and their willingness to use wildlife commercially. Aboriginal people are already involved in wildlife industries and their increased participation could result in sustainable employment and enhance conservation opportunities. 
Hale, P; Lamb, D 
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