Caroline and Patrick on the Easter Island - page 8

Caroline et Patrick are back. In the coming months they will study the samples and the casts they made. Their analyses will contribute to a better knowledge of the island's history.

It is thus obvious that the deforestation had its impact on the islanders' dietary habits. There was not only a shortage of vegetable food, but also of wood they needed for their cooking and for their boats. Consequently, the only marine animals on their diet were fish and shellfish living near the coasts, since the others, such as marine mammals, were beyond the reach of the fishermen.