Survivalist’s Guide to Edible Plants and Wildlife in Australia

Survival skills are essential knowledge for adventurers, hikers, and anyone who spends time outdoors. Understanding how to source food from the wilderness is a vital part of being prepared for unexpected situations. In Australia, where the landscape can vary from lush rainforests to arid deserts, knowing what to eat and what to avoid can be a matter of life and death.

In this survivalist’s guide, we’ll explore the edible plants and wildlife that can sustain you in the Australian wilderness. Remember, foraging for food should only be done in emergency situations or when you have the necessary knowledge and permits.

Edible Plants:

1. Wattle Seeds (Acacia spp.): Wattle seeds are a traditional Aboriginal food source rich in protein and carbohydrates. They can be ground into flour and used for baking.
2. Bush Tomatoes (Solanum centrale): These small, tangy fruits are high in vitamin C and can be eaten raw or used in cooking.
3. Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra): The seeds of kangaroo grass are edible and can be ground into flour or cooked as porridge.
4. Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora): Lemon myrtle leaves have a strong citrus flavor and are used to season food and make tea.
5. Warrigal Greens (Tetragonia tetragonioides): Also known as native spinach, these leafy greens can be cooked like spinach and are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Edible Wildlife:

1. Kangaroo: Kangaroo meat is lean and protein-rich. It can be cooked in various ways, such as grilling or stewing.
2. Wallaby: Similar to kangaroo, wallaby meat is a source of lean protein.
3. Emu: Emu meat is low in fat and a good source of protein. It can be cooked like other poultry meats.
4. Witchetty Grub: These large, white larvae are a good source of protein and are traditionally eaten by Indigenous Australians.
5. Barramundi: A popular Australian fish, barramundi is found in rivers and coastal areas. It’s delicious when grilled or baked.

Safety Tips:

• Never eat any plant or animal unless you’re 100% certain of its identity and edibility.
• Avoid plants with milky sap or red berries, as they can be toxic.
• Cook all wild meats thoroughly to kill any parasites or bacteria.
• Be mindful of local regulations and permits when foraging or hunting.

Resources:

1. Bush Tucker Plants – Aussie Bush Tucker
2. Edible and Useful Plants of Australia – Green Harvest
3. Survival Skills: Edible Plants and Wildlife – Australian Geographic

Remember, survival skills are best learned through practical training and experience. Consider taking a wilderness survival course to gain hands-on knowledge and confidence in foraging and hunting for food in the Australian bush.