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Sitka Blacktail Deer

Food of the Month

After the salmon runs dwindle down, right behind them is the deer season. It runs from August-December. The Sitka black-tailed deer is a main source of meat gathered by the Tlingits. The deer is a respected animal hunted for by the natives since the beginning of time. This excerpt is taken from Pauline Duncan's book Tlingit Recipes of Today and Long Ago.

Sitka Black-tail Deer

Edible parts of the deer: Stomach, tallow, liver, heart, ribs, backbone, and bones of the deer cooked down to a broth, after all meat has been scrapped or cooked.

Parts of the deer used: The horns and leftover bones used by weavers to tighten weaves. The deer hide used for sewing and drums. The deer hooves used for regalia or dance rattler. The horns are used for tools.

Natives respect the deer: Never laugh or joke about a deer. Example: A deer head is on the wall and a young native places sunglasses and a hat on the head so others laugh at the deer. This is not acceptable behavior. The deer spirit can hear you. You will experience pain for hurting the deer.

Never brag about hunting. Always remember the deer is very intelligent and has a keen sense of smelling and hearing. When you shoot a deer it is because the deer is offering himself. Use all parts of the deer. Do not waste. If you practice sharing and not wasting you will continue to experience good hunting. Share your first deer of the season with family and friends. Hunt for only what you need. Never shoot the deer as a sport.

Deer Hoof Rattler


open Boil Hooves
Bring water to boiling point in a coffee can or old pot. Boil for five minutes.

Boiling pot
open Extract Hooves
Take the hoof out of water and immediately begin popping hoofs with pliers. Allow to dry out. Drill holes on hoof and polish.

Extracting hooves
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