- description
- # CHAPTER LIV. SOME ACCOUNT OF THE WILD CATTLE IN POLYNESIA
## Overview
This chapter, titled "CHAPTER LIV. SOME ACCOUNT OF THE WILD CATTLE IN POLYNESIA," is part of the novel [Omoo: Adventures in the South Seas](arke:01KG8AJ7VM7B8YZ2568YF8PQ5J). It was extracted from the file [omoo.txt](arke:01KG89J1H7Y803CZ7X80F0QFHZ) and is part of the larger collection [Melville Complete Works](arke:01KG89HMDZKNY753EZE1CJ8HZW). The chapter spans from line 7531 to 7778 of the source text.
## Context
This chapter follows "CHAPTER LIII. FARMING IN POLYNESIA" and precedes "CHAPTER LVI. MOSQUITOES." It details the introduction and proliferation of wild cattle in Polynesia, primarily focusing on their presence and the hunting practices associated with them. The narrative touches upon the historical context of their introduction by Vancouver and the subsequent impact on the local fauna and native populations.
## Contents
The chapter begins by recounting the introduction of bullocks, sheep, and goats to the Society Islands by Vancouver approximately fifty years prior. It notes the disappearance of sheep and the limited presence of goats, while the bullocks, being prolific, multiplied significantly, particularly on the island of Imeeo. The text describes the wild cattle's habits, their impact on the landscape, and the native islanders' fear of them. It includes an anecdote about a dangerous encounter with a wild bull. The narrative then shifts to Hawaii, detailing Vancouver's efforts to introduce livestock and the subsequent unchecked multiplication of bullocks due to the island's abundant vegetation and lack of predators. The chapter recounts the near-extermination of these herds by Spanish hunters and opportunistic locals, driven by the lucrative hide trade, and the subsequent imposition of a royal "taboo" to protect the remaining animals. The text also briefly mentions the slaughter of goats during this period. The chapter concludes with the narrator and his companions, Tonoi and Zeke, venturing out on a hunting expedition, encountering wild hogs and observing the landscape, including unique trees and an ancient burial ground.
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- CHAPTER LIV. SOME ACCOUNT OF THE WILD CATTLE IN POLYNESIA
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- CHAPTER LIV. SOME ACCOUNT OF THE WILD CATTLE IN POLYNESIA