1. Large Game:
- Bison: The Utes hunted bison, which were abundant on the Great Plains and provided a significant source of meat.
- Elk: Elk was another important game animal for the Utes and was found in various mountainous areas.
2. Deer: Deer species such as mule deer and white-tailed deer were hunted for their meat.
3. Antelope: Pronghorn antelope were commonly hunted by the Utes and were found in more open areas.
4. Small Game:
- Rabbits: Different species of rabbits, such as cottontail and jackrabbits, were part of the Ute diet.
- Prairie Dogs: Prairie dogs were abundant in certain areas and were hunted for their meat.
5. Fish: The Utes also utilized fish as a food source, particularly in areas near rivers, streams, and lakes. Fish such as trout, suckers, and whitefish were caught using various techniques like spearfishing and netting.
6. Birds: Some bird species, such as waterfowl, grouse, and ptarmigan, were occasionally hunted for food, although they were not as significant as other sources.
7. Insects: During certain seasons, the Utes would also gather and eat insects like grasshoppers and crickets, which were roasted and consumed as a protein source.
The Utes often utilized different hunting methods based on the type of animal and the available resources. They employed bow and arrow, deadfall traps, pit traps, and communal hunts involving cooperative efforts to capture large game. Hunting was typically carried out by men and boys, while women often prepared the meat for preservation and consumption.
As the Utes were skilled hunters and resourceful gatherers, they adapted their dietary practices to the specific ecological conditions and the availability of various animal species within their territory.