Final answer:
The Ortolan is a small bird known for its unique culinary tradition involving the consumption of the entire bird, including bones and organs. This practice is controversial and facing restrictions in many countries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Ortolan is a small bird found in Europe and is known for its unique culinary tradition. It is deemed special in terms of eating because it is often consumed whole, including the bones and internal organs. The process involves capturing and then force-feeding the bird with a high-fat diet, which results in the bird gaining significant weight. It is then drowned in Armagnac brandy, roasted, and eaten whole, traditionally with a cloth covering the eater's head to enhance the experience.
This practice is controversial and has faced criticism due to its potential harm to animal welfare and conservation concerns. In recent years, there have been efforts to ban or restrict the consumption of Ortolans in several countries.
In summary, the unique aspect of eating Ortolans is the consumption of the entire bird, including its bones and organs, and the culturally significant rituals associated with it.