ancient egypt: history and culture
Ancient Egyptian bestiary: Quail
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Quail

quail
    Regarded as a delicacy, large numbers of migrating quail were caught when they landed exhausted after crossing the Mediterranean. Hunters spread nets and frightened the birds into rising. They got enmeshed in the nets and were easily picked off.
    Even the deceased enjoyed a feast of quail and death apparently did not spoil their appetite. In a letter to his dead mother Shepsi wrote:
You shall bring me poultry so that I can eat it," and when your son (i.e. Shepsi) brought 7 quails (pAa.w.t) you ate them.
 
 
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