Edible foods in the wilderness

[cgusek111]

I know of many things to eat and survive on in the woods. Yet, I was wondering if salamanders are edible. And feel free to share with us what other foods we can keep our eyes out for in the backwoods.

 

[knapperbill]

Some salamanders secrete a toxin as a defense. I wouldn't eat any unless I had done some research about salamanders in your area. Check this link:

http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/fisheries/420-528/420-528.html

The article states, "No salamanders are poisonous to humans; however, some produce toxins than can irritate human skin." It goes on to say, "Salamanders are not a food source for people, but they are sometimes used as fish bait by anglers." I think I would try frogs as they are more common anyway.

Bill

 

[g30ff]

All of the salamanders in Ontario are safe to eat, but things might be different where you live. Toxic salamanders tend to more common in tropical areas, but there's at least one in North America, the California newt (http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/site/accounts/information/Taricha_torosa.html). Poisonous amphibians are often have aposematic colouration (when you're that small poison isn't much of a defense unless potential predators know about it), so avoiding brightly coloured or warty ones would probably be safest if you're unsure. Salamanders are quite inconspicuous but they are often the most abundant creatures in the forest.

 

[longbow50]

Every year at this time, there is a Tarantula migration in our area. They are found moving about and are easy to capture. However, care should be taken because of the fine hairs on the abdomen. The spider can kick them off into the air in the direction of the predator thats after them. They are barbed and if they get into your eyes or lungs, they can do harm. These same hairs are what's used in iching powder. Still, they are edible from what I've read and the prefered method of cooking, is to toss them whole onto the fire to burn the hairs off and cook the meat.