Life in the Lower Pecos Family bands of 10-25 people would occupy an area for a short period of time,

then move on to other resources. For example, several bands might gather in late fall along the Devils River to gather pecans when they ripened. People might move to areas that had recently had rain, and thus be able to gather certain plants and hunt. Bands could move from one rock shelter to another at different times of year. Family bands could perform various functions for the larger clan, such as being guardians of certain ceremonial shelters. Shaman from these bands could be in charge of certain ceremonies conducted on behalf of all the clan. Not all band members had to move each time. Some elderly and very young could stay in the main shelter to protect it. When most go to gather plants or hunt, the elderly shaman remain to conduct rituals for good hunting. For example during the buffalo jump, the old and very young are not there. They may have gathered across the canyon to watch the event (!), and some infirm may remain in the shelter. Scrambling up and down the canyon walls is hard, esp. if you have a lame leg or foot. Monsoon months are April-October.

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