For the outdoorsy hermit crab enthusiast we have compiled a list of foods that can be collected or harvested. It’s perfect to tuck into your backpack for easy reference.

Please forage responsibly! Don’t over collect.  Respect all local, state and federal laws regarding wild foraging and collection.

Sustainable Foraging

“In addition to considering your own safety when foraging, it is also important to take a long-term view: sustainable foraging means remembering that you are not the only creature which may wish to make use of a given resource. For example, wild berries play an important role in birds’ diets.

Whatever you take, leave plenty for other people, and for local wildlife which may rely on these wild foods for their survival. Never dig up plants and remove them entirely (which is also illegal in certain locations). Rather, harvest from perennial plants, leaving them able to grow on and continue to produce their edible yield for years to come. Try to disturb the surrounding ecosystem as little as possible, so you (and others) can continue to benefit from its wild yields in future.” [1]

*Due to size and space limitations this is not an exhaustive list and should be cross referenced with our good/bad food lists.

If you plan to forage for items I gathered a few guides that will work great in conjunction our Foraging Guide
Edible Wild Plants: A North American Field Guide to Over 200 Natural Foods
https://amzn.to/2UnP0QD
National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers–E: Eastern Region
https://amzn.to/2UpyCPA
National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Wildflowers: Western Region
https://amzn.to/3bxFZd8
National Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Mushrooms
https://amzn.to/2UH0AF7
National Geographic Field Guide to the Trees of North America: The Essential Identification Guide for Novice and Expert
https://amzn.to/3ajTH3g

 

Resources

  1. https://ethical.net/sustainability/guide-to-foraging/