New book documents Tsou hunting grounds in Alishan
新書記錄阿里山鄒族狩獵場
| Co-author Pu Chung-yung aims to preserve Tsou culture for next generation
TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Chiayi County Tsou Hunters' Association and the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency Chiayi Branch (FNCACB) released a new book, “Hupa ta Cou-A’toana,” exploring the hunting grounds and tribal histories of the Tsou (Cou) people. This comprehensive work, published in September, is the first systematic documentation of the hunting trails and practices of the Tsou tribes in the Alishan area. The book was compiled over three years, detailing eight tribes and 13 hunters’ trails, alongside narratives from 20 Tsou hunters, per CNA. National Chung Cheng University researcher Pu Chung-yung (浦忠勇) emphasized the importance of this effort in preserving Tsou history and culture. Hunting has been a vital economic activity for the Tsou, influencing their social structures, land ethics, and beliefs. Pu noted that while hunting is central to the Tsou way of life, discussions about its legal status, ecological implications, and impact on conservation efforts are essential for reaching a consensus on these practices. FNCACB Director Chang Tai (張岱) highlighted the book as a milestone for Tsou self-governance in hunting, illustrating how traditional practices can align with modern forest management. The agency has been actively promoting self-governance in hunting, encouraging Tsou participation to foster public understanding and facilitate future dialogues. In conjunction with the book launch, Pu and huntress Fang Hung-ying (方紅櫻) will host four “unconferences,” inviting scholars, Tsou members from various tribes, and government representatives. Event Schedule: Oct. 30: Courage Bookshop, 6 p.m. Nov. 7: Hoanya Bookstore, 6 p.m. Nov. 18: Cheng Chung University Library’s Creative Classroom, 2 p.m. Nov. 20: Hunter Story Studio, 10 a.m. For more details, please visit the sign-up page or FNCAB’s Facebook page. |
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| Medwin Hsu, Taiwan News, Staff Writer | |
| 2024-10-28 |
