Egg thieves on the volcano: The dangerous game for the Bismarckhuhn!

Egg thieves on the volcano: The dangerous game for the Bismarckhuhn!

Around the Tavuvur volcano on the Gazelle peninsula in Papua New Guinea, egg search is a common practice, which is an important source of income for many locals. Men like William Pidik (30 years) and Chris (36 years) dig up to four meters deep holes in the Lavasand, the temperatures of which are over 30 degrees Celsius. You are looking for the eggs of the Bismarckhuhn, a special bird that lays large, brown eggs that are about the size of an avocado. These chickens, which are also known as thermometer chickens, use geothermal heat for brood care and are of great importance for the local population.

The egg search is a delicate balance between tradition and economic survival. Only villagers are allowed to search for eggs with the approval of the provincial government, and they mark their areas with sticks. However, the search carries risks because the excavations can collapse. Bismarck chickens lay eggs up to three times a day that are fresh and fragile. In order to get the population, the egg hucks try to only remove the freshly laid eggs. Experts from Bird Life International appreciate the population of the Bismarck chickens on several ten thousand, whereby the situation in Neubritain is considered not very questionable.

volcanic threats

The Tavuvur volcano is not only a source for eggs, but also a constant threat to the residents. The volcano regularly emits smoke columns and is almost continuously active. His eruptions have had devastating effects in the past. The village of Rabaul and the surrounding matupit were hit by a catastrophic outbreak in 1994, which began with an earthquake. During the two-week Ashfall period, nature was devastated and many residents had to move to safer areas. Nowadays, drinking water is a challenge because acidic lively drinking water makes drinking water inedible, and the residents have to cover long distances to get fresh water.

The impacts of the volcanic activity also lead to further risks. Volcanic eruptions can cause spectacular fire fountains and ash clouds that significantly affect people's way of life. The direct environment of the volcano suffers particularly strongly, as ash rains and volcanic nose strain the respiratory tract of the residents. Lava flows cover the land and can cause buildings and decaying trees by pressure waves.

the egg search as a way of life

Despite these challenges, egg search remains an important cultural and economic activity in the region. The so -called "egg times" last from March to November, while the price for a freshly laid egg on the Rabaul market can be 3 Kina (about 75 cents). Men who are active during this time can earn up to 1200 kina (approx. 300 euros) per month, which offers their families important financial support. In addition, the eggs are a desired delicacy in the provincial capital Kokopo, where they are also cooked in hot springs and sold as a snack. The intensive and mineral taste makes it special.

The challenges and the beauty of life on the Tavuvur volcano are closely interwoven. For the people in Matupit, egg search is not only a way to make a living, but also part of their identity and culture, which continues despite all the dangers. The author of the National Geographic Article launched the Pacific People Aid initiative to help people in Matupit by improving their access to drinking water and education for their children.

ln online Have to avoid nature and volcanic activity. While they are looking for the eggs of the Bismarckhuhn, the Tavuvur volcano is always a threat that extends over their daily life. The stories of survival and adaptation show the unmistakable interaction between humans and nature in this fascinating region in the world.
National Geographic illuminates the cultural aspects on which the search for the eggs is based, while Eskp indicates the impressive forces of volcanoes and their extensive effects.