"While most farmers domesticated animals such as poultry, pigs and cows, as well as growing cereals and legumes, a smaller, richer sector began to hunt and domesticate wildlife, such as #bats, turtles and #snakes. At first it was very small, growing and trading #wildlife only around the home. Although initially this was illegal, the #Chinese government turned a blind eye because it contributed to the livelihood of those engaged in it, necessary during those years of crisis."