Hunting, Fishing and Gathering of Food
Inland Valleys and Mountains:
The Natives that lived in the mountains were lucky enough to be able to hunt for game any larger than a rabbit. Deer, mountain sheep, and antelope lived in the inland valleys, and mountains. These animals were hunted with a bow and arrow. Fresh water fish were hooked or caught in nets and traps.
When a young hunter killed his first deer, he never ate any of the meat. All the meat went to relatives and the people of the village. It was consisdered bad luck for the hunter to eat any of it. Meat was always welcome by the tribe as a food source and, considered an excellent trading item.
Inland Valleys to the Coastal Areas:
The Natives that lived in the inland to coastal areas hunted for smaller animals, wood rats, rabbits and various types of birds. The weapons used were the "throwing stick" and "rabbit net". These were cooked over an open fire and served for dinner! Fresh water fish were hooked or caught in traps.
The coastal Natives fished the oceans, collected sea food and shell fish from the shores. They used fish line and hook, nets, fish traps and pries. They also hunted for smaller animals, wood rats, rabbits and various types of birds.
All tribes had something that another did not and these were items that were valuable for trading.
Return to California Natives Page
Return to the San Diego Mission Home Page
Return to the California Mission Internet Trail Home Page