Overview
This lecture describes the persistence hunting technique practiced by the San people of the Kalahari Desert, focusing on the physical and mental demands involved.
The San People and Hunting Method
- The San people are indigenous to the Kalahari Desert and are among the last to use ancient hunting methods.
- They practice persistence hunting, a technique that involves tracking and running down prey until it collapses from exhaustion.
Persistence Hunt Process
- Hunters identify the tracks of a herd, focusing on a specific animal, often a bull due to its heavier horns and quicker exhaustion.
- The goal is to separate the target from the herd to avoid confusing its tracks with others.
- Hunters track the pace and rhythm of the animal through the spacing of its footprints.
Physical and Mental Challenges
- Tracking can last for hours, putting hunters in a trance-like state of focus.
- Sometimes tracks disappear, requiring hunters to predict the animal's path based on instinct and understanding of animal behavior.
- Only one hunter (the runner) conducts the final chase, testing endurance against the prey.
Human Versus Animal Endurance
- Humans cool more efficiently through sweating, allowing for longer running over distances compared to animals.
- Humans can carry water, replenishing fluids lost through sweat, while animals must find shade to cool down.
Conclusion of the Hunt
- After many hours, both hunter and prey are exhausted, and the animal eventually collapses.
- The kill is made, often with little struggle, followed by ceremonial gestures to honor the animal's spirit.
- The hunter acknowledges the connection with the animal and gives thanks for sustaining his family.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Persistence Hunt — A hunting technique where humans chase prey until it collapses from exhaustion.
- San People — Indigenous hunter-gatherers of the Kalahari Desert.
- Kudu — A large antelope native to southern Africa, commonly hunted by the San.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the main steps and advantages of persistence hunting.
- Reflect on human adaptations for endurance hunting.